The James Altucher Show

A Note from James:In the first two episodes with Dr. Nicole McNichols, we talked about chemistry, communication, anatomy, and the science of pleasure. This final episode is really about something deeper—how relationships evolve over time and what actually keeps desire alive.Because the truth is, long-term relationships don’t stay exciting automatically. They require intention. They require curiosity. And sometimes the issue isn’t your partner at all—it’s that you’ve stopped doing things that light you up in your own life.We also talk about novelty, sex toys, aging, hormones, communication, and why pleasure itself is not optional for wellbeing—it’s essential.This conversation tied everything together for me.Episode Description:How do couples keep desire alive years—or decades—into a relationship?In the final part of this series, Dr. Nicole McNichols explains why long-term passion isn’t about constant novelty or dramatic reinvention. It’s about intentional connection, personal growth, communication, and maintaining a sense of play.They discuss the “seven-year itch,” why boredom often comes from losing personal passion rather than losing attraction, and how seeing your partner energized by their own interests can reignite desire. The conversation also explores sex toys as collaborative tools, the health benefits of sexual activity, aging and sexuality, hormone therapy, and practical ways to communicate about sex without embarrassment.The episode closes with a powerful reminder: pleasure is not a luxury—it’s a core component of wellbeing.What You’ll Learn:Why boredom in relationships is often about your own life—not your partnerHow pursuing individual passions can increase attraction in long-term couplesWhy sex toys enhance connection rather than threaten itThe physical and psychological health benefits of sexual activityHow curiosity, humor, and vulnerability improve sexual communicationTimestamped Chapters:[00:02:00] Pleasure, Playfulness & Why Attraction Fades[00:03:28] The Seven-Year Itch & Long-Term Desire[00:04:00] Intention, Communication & Intimacy Dates[00:04:45] When Boredom Is About Your Own Life[00:05:25] Personal Passion & Seeing Your Partner Differently[00:06:11] The Best Sex of Your Life After Kids[00:08:16] Novelty Without Threatening the Relationship[00:09:24] Erotic Identity & Emotional Needs[00:11:00] Frequency of Novelty & Sexual Compatibility[00:11:21] Men Feeling Threatened by Novelty[00:11:42] Sex Toys as Collaborative Tools[00:13:26] The Pleasure Cycle: Wanting, Liking, Learning[00:14:12] Sex, Stress Reduction & Sleep[00:15:23] Health Benefits of Sex[00:16:08] Pleasure as Essential Wellbeing[00:19:00] Is Sex the Most Enjoyable Activity?[00:20:00] Presence, Mindfulness & Happiness Research[00:21:39] Sex and Meditation[00:22:00] Sex in Your 80s & Aging[00:23:22] Loneliness, Health & Sexual Function[00:24:25] Erectile Dysfunction & Physical Health[00:25:00] Menopause, Hormones & Sexual Pain[00:26:23] Hormone Therapy & Medical Guidance[00:27:35] Communication as the Core Skill[00:28:35] Leading With Curiosity[00:29:56] Humor, Playfulness & Awkward Conversations[00:31:08] Closing ThoughtsAdditional Resources:You Could Be Having Better SexNicole McNicholsDaniel Gilbert — Happiness research referencedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:In the first episode with Dr. Nicole McNichols, we talked about chemistry, myths, and why communication matters more than performance. This episode goes deeper—into biology, anatomy, dopamine, desire, and the mechanics of pleasure.There are a lot of myths around sex. Some are cultural. Some are Hollywood. Some come from bad science. And some just come from silence.This conversation gets specific. We talk about orgasm, desire, scheduling sex, the so-called “missionary problem,” novelty in long-term relationships, and why so much of what we assume about men and women sexually just isn’t true.If Part 1 was about mindset, Part 2 is about understanding how sex actually works.Episode Description:What actually happens in the body during orgasm? Why does anticipation sometimes feel better than the act itself? And why are so many of our beliefs about sex simply wrong?In Part 2 of this three-part series, Dr. Nicole McNichols breaks down the biology of desire, the science of orgasm, and the myths that quietly sabotage long-term relationships.She explains why dopamine peaks during anticipation, why consistency—not intensity—is often key to orgasm, and why “missionary” might be underrated. They explore the anatomy of the clitoris (including research only fully mapped in 2006), the orgasm gap, responsive vs. spontaneous desire, and why scheduling intimacy can actually increase desire.This episode reframes sex not as performance, but as collaboration—an evolving, communicative process rooted in curiosity and growth.What You’ll Learn:Why dopamine spikes during anticipation—and how to avoid the post-expectation letdownThe difference between spontaneous and responsive desire (for both men and women)Why consistency is physiologically critical during orgasmThe science behind the orgasm gap and what actually closes itWhy scheduling intimacy can increase frequency and desire—not kill spontaneityTimestamped Chapters:[00:02:00] No One Craves Bad Sex & The Myth of “Boring” Positions[00:03:18] Previously on Part 1: Porn Myths & Feeling Wanted[00:04:00] Chemistry, Pheromones & The Role of Safety[00:06:00] Sexual Growth Mindset & Compatibility[00:08:00] Fireworks vs. Communication[00:10:00] Anatomy, Diversity of Touch & The Clitoris Explained[00:12:00] Scripts, Feedback & How to Talk During Sex[00:17:00] Novelty, Micro-Novelty & Preventing Boredom[00:19:00] Wanting, Liking & Learning: The Pleasure Cycle[00:23:00] Expanding the Definition of Sex[00:25:00] The “Sex Recession” & Frequency Myths[00:27:00] Planning Intimacy & Scheduling Sex[00:31:00] Why Missionary Deserves a Rebrand[00:34:00] Internal Anatomy, the Clitoral Complex & Size Myths[00:39:00] What Is an Orgasm, Physiologically?[00:45:00] The Orgasm Gap & Why Fingering Matters[00:47:00] Consistency vs. “Faster & Harder”[00:49:00] Masturbation Myths & No Nut November[00:51:00] Refractory Period & Aging[00:55:00] Multiple Orgasms & What Research Shows[01:00:00] Love, Orientation & Novelty in Long-Term RelationshipsAdditional Resources:You Could Be Having Better SexNicole McNicholsHelen O'Connell – Research mapping full clitoral anatomy (MRI studies)Beverly Whipple – Orgasm research & physiological studiesA Moveable Feast – Referenced during discussionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:This archival conversation with Ramit Sethi is a masterclass in systems thinking, behavioral psychology, and building a “rich life” on your own terms.Long before online courses were mainstream, Ramit was quietly building scalable systems—automating money, testing business ideas rigorously, and rejecting conventional wisdom around careers, housing, and passion. In this conversation, he explains why most advice fails, why willpower is overrated, and how to engineer results instead of hoping for inspiration.They cover negotiation psychology, competence triggers, breaking into dream jobs without HR, why buying a house isn’t always the best investment, and how to build a real online business—from research to first sale.This episode still holds up because it’s not about hacks. It’s about structure. Systems. Leverage. And testing instead of guessing.What You’ll Learn:Why analyzing your own behavior (even on video) is one of the fastest ways to improveThe concept of “competence triggers” and how to use them in interviews and negotiationsWhy most financial advice (like skipping lattes) focuses on the wrong problemsHow to negotiate salary without anchoring yourself to your current payThe step-by-step system for building an online business—from research to first saleTimestamped Chapters:[00:02:00] Human Behavior, Willpower & Cognitive Misers[00:03:00] Ramit’s Origin Story: Scholarships, Interviews & Self-Analysis[00:06:00] The Power of Videotaping Yourself[00:08:00] Losing Money & Discovering Personal Finance Psychology[00:09:00] Why Latte Advice Doesn’t Work[00:11:00] Automating Money & Designing a Rich Life[00:14:00] The Housing Myth & Financial “Great Lies”[00:18:00] How to Land a Dream Job (Without HR)[00:20:00] Negotiation Tactics & Avoiding Salary Anchors[00:28:00] Competence Triggers & Social Signaling[00:34:00] Why Courses Beat Books (For Results)[00:38:00] Zero to Launch: Why Most Passive Income Advice Is Wrong[00:41:00] Research Before Building: Finding Profitable Ideas[00:44:00] Writing Headlines That Sell[00:49:00] Traffic Strategy: Guest Posting & Email Lists[00:52:00] Case Study: Turning Tutoring into $200KAdditional Resources:Ramit Sethi's WebsiteI Will Teach You to Be Rich - The BookSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:This might be the most useful episode I’ve ever done. Not that the others weren’t useful—they were—but this one goes above and beyond. It was also awkward for me, and honestly a little embarrassing, to ask some of these questions. I asked them anyway, and I’m glad I did, because the answers were excellent.This episode is with Dr. Nicole McNichols, who just released her book You Could Be Having Better Sex: The Definitive Guide to a Happier, Healthier, and Hotter Sex Life. There was so much strong material that we split the conversation into three parts.This first episode focuses on what great sex actually is, the myths most of us have absorbed, and what really separates good sex from bad sex. Episode two will focus on the science and mechanics of pleasure—how sex actually works. Episode three will be about keeping the spark alive over time.I had a lot of fun talking with Dr. McNichols, and I hope you enjoy this first part.Episode Description:What actually makes sex good—and why do so many people get it wrong?In this episode, James talks with human sexuality professor Dr. Nicole McNichols about how modern myths around sex, porn, dating culture, and “chemistry” distort what people think they’re supposed to want. Instead of performance, novelty, or intensity, she explains why pleasure, communication, and feeling genuinely wanted matter far more.They also unpack why anxiety and uncertainty are often mistaken for chemistry, how emotional and intellectual intimacy feed sexual connection, and why setting clear boundaries is essential—not just in relationships, but in dating itself.This conversation reframes sex in a way most people were never taught, grounded in research, real relationships, and practical self-respect.What You’ll Learn:Why great sex is defined by pleasure, communication, and responsiveness—not performance or noveltyHow anxiety, inconsistency, and “the chase” get mistaken for chemistryWhy non-sexual touch and everyday intimacy directly affect sexual desireHow intellectual connection and feeling seen feed attractionHow setting clear boundaries in dating protects your emotional and sexual healthTimestamped Chapters:[00:02:00] Episode Preview: Porn myths, exaggerated expectations, and false ideas about desire[00:03:18] A Note from James[00:04:36] Interview Begins: Dr. Nicole McNichols’ background and teaching human sexuality[00:07:05] What’s the difference between bad sex and great sex?[00:10:16] The role of caring and communication[00:11:21] In defense of “vanilla” sex[00:12:47] Why non-sexual touch matters more than people realize[00:14:23] Intellectual intimacy and sexual attraction[00:15:25] Sapiosexuality and attraction beyond looks[00:17:03] Chemistry vs. anxiety in relationships[00:19:13] The real number-one sexual fantasy: feeling wanted[00:21:15] The myth of “playing the game” in attraction[00:24:30] Dating in the culture of ambiguity[00:26:14] Why intentional dating matters[00:27:55] Boundaries, confidence, and self-careAdditional Resources:You Could Be Having Better SexNicole McNicholsThe Gottman InstituteFundera powered by NerdWalletSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:This was one of those interviews where James thought he was talking about leadership—and realized halfway through that he was really talking about responsibility.Jocko Willink doesn’t use buzzwords. He doesn’t soften the message. He talks about ego, blame, and why most problems—at work and in life—don’t come from bad systems but from leaders who won’t take ownership.What struck James most wasn’t the battlefield stories. It was how calmly Jocko explained things everyone avoids: hard conversations, personal discipline, and the quiet habits that prevent disasters before they happen. No theatrics. No motivation talk. Just clarity.Listening back now, years later, this episode feels even more relevant. The ideas haven’t aged at all. If anything, they matter more.What You’ll Learn:Why ego—not lack of skill—is the biggest obstacle to leadershipHow taking ownership defuses blame and accelerates problem-solvingWhy hard conversations get easier when you have them earlyHow decentralized command builds trust and better decisionsWhy discipline creates freedom in work, creativity, and personal lifeTimestamped Chapters:[00:00] Handling criticism, ego, and emotional control[03:00] Introduction: Jocko Willink, Extreme Ownership, and Way of the Warrior Kid[06:00] Kids, insecurity, and learning discipline early[08:00] Combat decision-making and pausing under pressure[11:00] Friendly fire, responsibility, and the origin of “Extreme Ownership”[12:30] Blame vs. ownership in business and life[15:00] Ego as the real obstacle to leadership[17:00] How leaders share blame without losing authority[18:30] Clarifying expectations: writing, follow-ups, and alignment[20:00] Avoiding confrontation—and why it backfires[22:00] Hard conversations: why earlier is always easier[24:00] Escalation, accountability, and firing as leadership failure[25:30] Being proactive instead of reactive[26:30] Why Jocko joined the SEALs[28:00] The “dry years”: training for war that never came[30:00] Discipline equals freedom[31:30] Discipline in art and creativity (Jimmy Page example)[33:00] Commander’s intent vs. micromanagement[35:00] Decentralized command and trusting your team[37:00] Managing micromanagers by over-communicating[41:00] Leadership problems vs. process problems[44:00] Sleep, routines, and daily discipline[47:00] Way of the Warrior Kid and teaching confidence[49:30] Jiujitsu as discipline, restraint, and self-control[54:00] Confidence reduces conflict[58:00] Discipline, freedom, and building a personal code01:03:00] National strength and deterrence[01:05:00] War, leadership, and human nature[01:08:00] Why veterans think twice about war[01:10:00] Perspective from real suffering[01:13:00] Gratitude in modern life[01:15:00] Studying hardship to build humility[01:18:00] Comfort vs. resilience[01:20:00] Perspective, sacrifice, and responsibility[01:26:00] Paying tribute to endurance and resilience[01:28:00] Closing reflections and sign-offSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:This was one of the most intense conversations James ever recorded.This archive conversation captures David Goggins at the moment Can’t Hurt Me was launching — before the mythology around him fully formed. What makes this episode powerful is how grounded it is. He’s not selling inspiration. He’s explaining the mechanics of suffering, discipline, and self-reinvention in plain terms.Goggins describes growing up with abuse, learning disabilities, fear, and self-hatred — and how those became the raw material for rebuilding himself. He explains his concept of the “40% rule,” the mental governor that convinces people they’re done long before they actually are. He also breaks down why failure isn’t the end of anything — it’s the beginning of knowledge.The conversation moves from ultramarathons and Navy SEAL training into everyday applications: work ethic, education, relationships, accountability, and the quiet habits that build resilience. It’s not about extreme athletics. It’s about developing a mindset that doesn’t collapse when life gets hard.What You’ll Learn:Why your brain tells you to quit at 40% — and how to push past that limitHow discomfort, not comfort, is the real training ground for mental strengthWhy failure is data, not defeatHow to build discipline through small daily “mini boot camps”Why accountability starts with brutal honesty about yourselfTimestamped Chapters:[00:00] Haters, criticism, and emotional control[04:00] Introducing David Goggins + the pull-up record shock[08:00] Life as a race: getting to the start line[11:30] Callousing the mind through discomfort[14:00] Living outside the comfort box[16:00] Learning disability and obsessive study discipline[20:00] Public speaking, stuttering, and fear exposure[23:30] Failure as the beginning of growth[27:00] Society’s fear of discomfort[30:00] Radical accountability[32:00] Meaning, suffering, and visualization[35:00] The first 100-mile race: confronting death[39:00] Rejection as fuel[41:30] What happens after achievement[44:00] Writing the book and vulnerability[46:00] Discipline audit: where your hours go[48:00] Abuse, forgiveness, and breaking cycles[52:00] Cutting toxic relationships[55:00] The 40% rule explained[58:00] Reflection as survival[01:00:00] Building a personal mental boot camp[01:05:00] Comfort vs. growth: why people stay stuck[01:10:00] Identity, self-image, and reinvention[01:15:00] Discipline as daily practice[01:20:00] Aging, purpose, and long-term mindset[01:25:00] Applying Goggins’ philosophy to normal life[01:30:00] Training for life, not races[01:35:00] Legacy and impact[01:40:00] Closing reflections + audiobook discussionAdditional Resources:Can't Hurt Me – David GogginsDavid Goggins Official WebsiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:This second installment of “From the Archive” returns to James’s early, unfiltered conversation with Tim Ferriss. They unpack how to market by creating newsworthy moments (including a frigid book-launch fiasco turned lesson), how to learn anything using Tim’s DISS framework (Deconstruction, Selection, Sequencing, Stakes), and why “possibility is negotiable” when you seek outliers and test assumptions. Tim explains fear-setting, slow-play networking that leads to real mentors, and the origin story of BrainQUICKEN → BodyQuick, including direct-response tactics, offline ads, and early UFC sponsorships. The through-line: run small experiments, protect your best energy, and stack skills to raise your odds.What You’ll Learn:How to engineer “newsworthy” launches and recover from execution misses without losing momentum.The DISS method for rapid learning (Deconstruction, Selection, Sequencing, Stakes) you can apply to languages, poker, orFear-setting, not goal-setting: define worst-case scenarios, prevention steps, and recovery plans to make bolder moves.Mentors without asking “be my mentor”: add value first, build loose ties, and let a few relationships compound.From side-hustle to exit: repositioning, channel selection (including print/radio), and why out-of-fashion inventory can be a bargain.Timestamped Chapters:[02:20] A launch-day disaster in 10° weather—and the customer-recovery playbook.[05:00] “Possibility is negotiable” vs. the default “probable” path.[06:57] Finding mentors by learning before earning: the slow-play relationship strategy.[10:00] Optionality: the angel-investing analogy for career and mentors.[14:00] The DISS framework for learning anything.[18:50] Hunt the outliers: why “who shouldn’t be good at this—but is?” unlocks technique.[24:30] Fear-setting: risk = likelihood of an irreversible negative outcome.[26:20] Micro-experiments to de-risk big transitions.[27:24] Secret origin: BrainQUICKEN → BodyQuick; from nootropics to non-stimulant pre-workout.[31:55] Repositioning, targeted niches, and early UFC placements.[33:13] Don’t ignore “old” channels: print and radio as arbitrage.[33:55] Burnout, one-way ticket to London, and systems that led to a sale.[40:36] Title testing (and red herrings) in publishing.[46:16] The 4-Hour Workweek started by accident [52:14] Publishing myths: how “impossible” ideas become inevitable [01:07:58] TV vs. podcasting: control, constraints, and creative freedom [01:31:34] Investing: bet on people (the beer test + mall test) Additional Resources:Tim Ferriss — official site/podcast hub: tim.blog • The Tim Ferriss ShowThe 4-Hour Workweek (Expanded & Updated): Amazon listingThe 4-Hour Body — official site: fourhourbody.comThe 4-Hour Chef — official site: fourhourchef.comThe 4-Hour Workweek — official site: fourhourworkweek.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:Data is oil. Data is the gold of this AI revolution. Imagine you have an AI that has all of everybody’s thoughts also—so it’s not just learning on tweets and texts, it’s learning on the 60,000 or so thoughts that 8 billion people think each day around the world. This sounds like amazing science fiction and magic and everything that one could ever have dreamed of… or it could be the end of the world. Episode Description:In this solo episode, James breaks down a recent AI development that made him pause for the first time: OpenAI’s investment in a brain-computer interface startup called Merge Labs. He explains why data is the core asset in AI—and why the next frontier isn’t better chatbots, but higher-bandwidth access to human intent, attention, and ultimately thought.James compares Merge Labs’ approach with Neuralink, then walks through the practical upsides: medical breakthroughs, hands-free control of devices, and AI-assisted cognition in everyday life. But he also explores the uncomfortable implications: privacy, influence, and the risk that “thought data” could become the most valuable—and most dangerous—resource on Earth. What You’ll Learn:Recognize why “data is oil” is still the most important frame for AI power Understand what brain-computer interfaces are, and how they differ across companies Think through real use cases (medical, device control, communication) before the hype takes over Identify the privacy line: what “training on your thoughts” could actually mean in practice Pressure-test your own optimism about AI by asking: “Once data is shared, can it be unshared?” Timestamped Chapters:[02:00] Data is oil: why AI is really a data arms race [02:40] Utopia vs dystopia vs “newtopia” [03:16] The optimist’s argument: tech usually helps more than it hurts [04:39] The news: OpenAI invests $250M into Merge Labs [05:29] Why the Sam Altman overlap matters (and why it’s unusual) [06:02] What brain-computer interfaces actually do [06:22] Neuralink explained: reading intent from neurons [07:44] Writing signals back to the brain: the scary part (and the helpful part) [09:39] Merge Labs’ approach: engineered neurons + ultrasound [12:47] Controlling devices by thought: the “thermostat from bed” future [14:35] Telepathy as technology: brain-to-brain messaging [16:17] Influence risk: persuasion and “writing” thoughts [18:45] The real moat: not software—data [19:55] The next dataset: 60,000 thoughts/day × 8B people [21:36] The irreversible trade: once data is handed over, it’s gone [22:17] Why this kind of news is accelerating Additional Resources:OpenAI — “Investing in Merge Labs” (official announcement)WIRED — coverage of OpenAI’s investment and Merge Labs’ BCI approachTechCrunch — reporting on the Merge Labs seed round and valuationNeuralink — official siteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:You know, I’ve known Scott Adams for probably 12 or 13 years. He was one of the first guests on this podcast, and he’s the creator of Dilbert, which was my favorite cartoon strip for decades. But then, starting around 2013, he started writing about his life, his opinions, his approach to life, and what made him a success. The first book he did in this genre was How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big. He also wrote another book that was very influential, called Win Bigly: Persuasion in a World Where Facts Don’t Matter. Both of these books are must-reads. Win Bigly is the best book ever about real-world persuasion. And Scott Adams himself was kind of an—I don’t want to say he’s an amateur hypnotist, but really more like a professional—in terms of how he used hypnotism techniques for persuasion. And How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big...when this comes from the very first podcast I had with him—how his story of how Dilbert became a hundred-million-dollar success… he was failing constantly. And the story of the success of Dilbert, which he tells in this episode we’re going to show you now, is just amazing. Scott Adams has more recently become known for his political musings. He had a daily podcast, Coffee with Scott Adams, which I regularly listen to. I would say over the past decade—or 13 years, 12 years—he has not only become a great friend, and even somewhat of a mentor to me, but we’ve talked a lot, on and off the podcast—his podcast, my podcast—and he really helped me out through some times when I was a little upset about different things. He really knew how to reframe problems so that they would become successes. And when I first heard he was sick—this was last June—I was devastated. And of course, he prepared us all that he was going to pass away, which he did a few days ago. It was really upsetting. And, you know, I hate when people kind of take advantage of someone’s death by saying, “Oh, I knew him great. He was my best…” blah, blah, blah. I just want to tell you: listen, put aside all your opinions. He was a great artist. He was a great storyteller. He had opinions you may or may not agree with, but he really knew a lot about the DNA of success and the real mechanics of persuasion—no BS, no academic stuff—just really how to do it. I would really encourage you: you could better your life if you read his books. I love this guy. I’m really sad he passed away. I’ve learned so much from him, and I want to share a little bit of that in this episode. Maybe we’ll even do another one at some point. But, you know, rest in peace, Scott Adams. And please, if you haven’t learned from him in the past—or even if you have—we had a great time whenever we talked. And here’s a piece of that.Episode Description:Scott Adams (creator of Dilbert) explains why he thinks goals can actually make you worse off—and why systems, energy, and probability are the real tools for building a career that lasts.He tells the story of how he broke into syndicated cartooning after repeated rejection, and how a small nudge from a stranger kept him from quitting too early.James and Scott talk about writing with “danger,” why people can’t reliably judge good ideas, and how persistence becomes easier once you stop expecting a perfect plan.They also get into the emotional side of “making it”—including why success can feel disorienting when you hit a milestone you thought would solve everything. What You’ll Learn:Build systems instead of chasing goals, because the target will move before you get there Increase your odds by trying many small bets, rather than staking everything on one “perfect” plan Write with an element of risk—if you’re not at least a little scared, it’s probably too safe Don’t trust friends (or investors) to recognize a good idea on sight—nobody can predict outcomes reliably Protect your energy and schedule your hardest creative work when your brain is actually sharp Timestamped Chapters:[03:04] A Note from James: why Scott mattered, and why this still holds up [06:50] Scott’s new book, Dilbert, and why “systems beat goals” [12:26] Scott’s daily routine and how he actually creates cartoons[15:22] The real Dilbert origin story: rejection, Jack Cassidy, and persistence [22:12] “Danger” in writing: why safe content gets ignored [25:01] The strange downside of success: when purpose evaporates [30:09] Passion is overrated: why momentum beats motivation[33:02] The math of luck: a thousand 10% chances becomes a near guarantee [34:45] Talent stacking: combine mediocre skills into a rare advantage[37:03] Energy as the real multiplier: sleep, food, exercise, and timing [41:53] People can’t judge ideas: why “bad ideas” still have value[45:13] The Spider-Man problem: responsibility after you’ve “made it”[46:01] CalendarTree: solving a small scheduling problem well [52:42] Why James’s biggest opportunities came from writing that felt riskyAdditional Resources:Scott Adams — Coffee with Scott Adams (official community site)How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big — Scott Adams (Amazon)Win Bigly: Persuasion in a World Where Facts Don’t Matter — Scott Adams (Amazon)Dilbert (official site)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:To launch our “From the Archive” series, James revisits his candid talk with Sara Blakely about turning fear into fuel, reframing failure, and selling a simple product with language and grit. You’ll hear the bathroom demo that won Neiman Marcus, the three-part courage engine she still uses, and how to protect the thinking time that sparks real ideas. What You’ll Learn:A usable framework for courage: how gratitude, mortality, and mission help you act when you’re anxious. Cold-call tactics that open doors: lead with humanity, humor, and a clear benefit; remove “doubt language.” Naming and language as strategy: why one word, cadence, or sound (“K”) can change response and recall. Prototype → proof → order: how to create momentum before the back office exists—and survive it. Idea hygiene: protect thinking time, keep an “idea log,” and test small, real-world demos fast. Timestamped Chapters:[02:13] “What did you fail at this week?” — redefining failure at the dinner table. [03:13] Why this conversation outranked a big news assignment. [04:25] Mission beyond profit — Belly Art Project and maternal health. [06:17] Empowering women: the through-line from day one. [08:00] Gratitude and anxiety — learning courage in real time. [10:12] Mortality as perspective; the loss that changed her trajectory. [12:19] Purpose larger than self—doing the scary thing anyway. [14:50] The Warren Buffett premiere pep talk: “Get over yourself.” [17:08] Stand-up as training for product storytelling. [19:00] Seven years of cold calling: rejection as reps. [21:33] Wayne Dyer and “how to think” vs. “what to think.” [26:16] The “fake commute”: protecting thinking time. [30:00] “Are you my idea?” — from cut-off pantyhose to a canvas under clothes. [33:00] The value of a word: comedy, cadence, and copy. [34:03] Why she bet on a name with a hard “K.” [42:52] The Neiman Marcus call, the in-person pitch, and the bathroom demo. [49:31] “We don’t have crotches” — surviving ops chaos on the first big order. [52:00] Tears in Office Depot and learning the bill of lading. Additional Resources:SPANX — official site. https://spanx.com/The Belly Art Project (book). https://www.amazon.com/Belly-Art-Project-Moms-Supporting/dp/1250121361Belly Art Project — official site. https://www.bellyartproject.org/Every Mother Counts — a nonprofit founded by Christy Turlington Burns. https://everymothercounts.org/Sara Blakely Foundation — mission overview. https://www.spanxfoundation.com/about/Sara Blakely — Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/sarablakely/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:One of my favorite conversations on this show was with Peter Thiel. Yes—PayPal, Facebook, Palantir, and a dozen other hits. I first ran this episode years ago, and the advice still holds up. The same stories, the same frameworks—and the same challenge to think from first principles. Here’s Peter Thiel, one of the most influential entrepreneurs of our time. Episode Description:In this redux, James pressure-tests the core ideas from Peter Thiel’s Zero to One—why competition is for losers, how real monopolies are built, and why starting “narrow” is often the only path to something huge. They cover Facebook’s early moat (real identity), PayPal’s network-effect wedge on eBay, and the “10x or nothing” bar for proprietary technology. Peter shares a contrarian read on bubbles, why biotech’s slump may be opportunity, and how to hire, divide roles, and keep teams from fighting. The through-line: seek secrets, combine disciplines, and make something so different that it becomes its own category. What You’ll Learn:How to pick markets the Zero to One way: start with a “small, winnable monopoly,” then expand in concentric circles. The four classic moats—and which to favor first: proprietary tech, network effects, economies of scale, and brand (with a bias toward real tech). A practical rule for virality vs. network effects: growth is a tactic; enduring value comes from the network that forms once users arrive. Team design that prevents internal warfare: make roles uniquely owned; if two people own the same thing, you’re paying for a fight. How to hunt “secrets”: believe they exist, look where consensus is stale, and borrow from adjacent fields to see what specialists miss. Timestamped Chapters:[02:00] A Note from James — Why this conversation still ranks among the best. [03:00] Zero to One, in one line — “Do something new, different, fresh, strange.” [05:17] Competition vs. Capitalism — Why perfect competition kills profits; aim for uniqueness. [07:28] Facebook’s original edge — Real identity as the breakthrough vs. MySpace’s alt-persona culture. [09:14] Bits vs. Atoms — Stagnation outside software and how biology could become an information science. [12:05] Personality and perseverance — Why mild contrarian wiring helps founders ignore status games. [15:21] “10x or nothing” — The technology and/or experience must be an order of magnitude better. [17:00] Monopoly thinking, ethically done — Create abundance by creating something truly new. [23:30] The PayPal pre-history — Why long-running trust among teammates births more companies. [30:10] Early Facebook investment logic — College-only looked “small,” which was exactly the point. [32:03] Turning down $1B — The boardroom debate, optionality, and founder conviction. [36:23] Moats in practice — Picking the right advantage (and why brand alone is shaky). [37:06] Network effects ≠ virality — How value compounds after growth. [39:54] PayPal’s wedge — eBay power-sellers and the $10 incentive as a growth accelerant. [41:22] Beware the “Chinese refrigerator” TAM slide — Start small, win big. [42:01] Uber vs. Airbnb — Investor bias and why some models get over- or undervalued. [44:18] Bubbles and the public — What changes across tech, housing, and today’s “government bubble.” [48:00] War on cash & credit — Why Peter favors unlevered, opaque innovation over fixed income. [51:10] Biotech headwinds (and upside) — Regulation, Eroom’s Law, and why sentiment can misprice breakthroughs. [53:50] Secrets — If you assume they exist, you’ll be the one to find them. [57:56] Interdisciplinary bets — CS × biology; CS × transportation; why university silos miss the action. [59:51] Silicon Valley on HBO — The “Peter Gregory” caricature and what the show gets right. Additional Resources:Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future (book) — Amazon hardcover. AmazonFounders Fund — Peter Thiel profile (bio & portfolio highlights). Founders Fund“PayPal Mafia” overview (alumni companies: YouTube, Yelp, LinkedIn, Tesla, SpaceX, Palantir, Yammer). WikipediaYahoo’s 2006 $1B offer for Facebook (background reporting). Business InsiderEroom’s Law (pharma R&D productivity; Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). NatureSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:Tim Dillon is crazy—in the best way. Not “institution” crazy. Crazy smart. Years ago he told me things about Epstein, hustle culture, and how the world really works that felt outlandish then and obvious now. He’s quirky, honest, and usually right about what to pay attention to. Also, he’s flat-out funny. Let’s bring Tim back and see how much of that old conversation still hits today.Episode Description:This redux revisits James’s conversation with comedian Tim Dillon on narratives, media incentives, and why “it’s all a game.” Tim argues that most public debates are programmed like a TV network—stars, storylines, and predictable reactions—while the real action is off-camera. They examine why certain stories (Epstein, “suppressed” segments, political theater) catch fire and others vanish, the line between authenticity and performance in comedy, and how creators can actually build careers without gatekeepers. It’s a practical episode about staying sane—less who’s right, more how to think.What You’ll Learn:A “game” heuristic for news and politics: spot the incentives (access, ads, algorithms) before you react to the headline.An authenticity filter for creators: why work rooted in your own experience connects—and how to test if a bit or idea is “real enough” to spread.A simple media-diet protocol: cross-reference sources and avoid getting “programmed” into outrage cycles.Platform strategy 101 for comics and solo creators: post consistently, control distribution, and stop waiting for gatekeepers to bless you.Career anti-fragility for uncertain times: ignore hustle theater; build repeatable systems that survive algorithm and industry swings.Timestamped Chapters:[00:02] A Note from James — Why Tim’s “crazy smart” observations aged well.[03:09] Ignorance vs. Happiness — “If you learn how the world works, you won’t be happier—unless you make it fun.”[06:21] News Is a Bridge to the Next Ad Break — Access, scoops, and why some stories never see daylight.[08:25] History You Don’t Hear About — Smedley Butler, coups, and how missing chapters change the plot.[10:28] The Epstein Loop — From wall-to-wall coverage to silence—and what “access journalism” rewards.[15:38] How to Be Informed Without Going Insane — Cross-checking and opting out.[24:03] Rage, Class, and the Party at the Top — Why “difference” wins in politics and comedy.[38:04] UBI, Automation, and Fear Narratives — What’s real risk vs. campaign theater.[01:24:14] Owning Your Distribution — Algorithms, streaming “cartels,” and why your social feed is your venue.[01:30:08] From Garage to Millions of Views — The Megan McCain sketch and shipping scrappy work.[01:49:57] Authenticity Over Everything — Why “true to you” outlasts polished but hollow.Additional Resources:Tim Dillon — Official site / podcast hub: https://timdilloncomedy.com/The Tim Dillon Show (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/2gRd1woKiAazAKPWPkHjdsTim on Instagram (@timjdillon): https://www.instagram.com/timjdillon/JRE #1251 — Tim Dillon (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/episode/12jteiLJyQaD85ynvJQBk9JRE #1390 — Tim Dillon (episode info): https://ogjre.com/episode/1390-tim-dillonABC hot-mic / Epstein backstory:Axios recap — https://www.axios.com/2019/11/05/abc-news-jeffrey-epstein-amy-robach-project-veritasThe Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/media/2019/nov/06/abc-news-leak-raises-questions-about-unaired-interview-with-epstein-accuserSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

James brings back astrophysicist Brian Keating for a practical takedown of moon-landing conspiracy claims—and a wider lesson in how to reason when everyone has a microphone. From the Van Allen belts to “the flag waving,” Keating separates physics from folklore, explains what evidence actually looks like (hello, laser retroreflectors), and gives a playbook for engaging friends who’ve gone down the rabbit hole—without losing your mind.MAKE SURE TO WATCH: Brian Keating's Video Debunking the Moon Landing Conspiracy TheoryWhat You’ll Learn:A simple framework for arguing well: define the claim, demand specific evidence, check physics and history, and compare against competing explanations.Why the Van Allen belts don’t “fry” astronauts and how Apollo minimized exposure (trajectory + speed + shielding).How we still verify Apollo today (lunar laser ranging off Apollo-placed mirrors).How to spot trope-based arguments (appeals to vibes, selective papers, “we haven’t gone back, therefore it never happened”).Timestamped Chapters:[00:00] Opening: “What’s up with Candace Owens?” Setting the table: Bart Sibrel, viral platforms, and why this matters.[02:30] Rogan, Jesse Michels, and the megaphone effect. Platforms amplify doubt; why it sticks.[04:20] Thiel salons & the culture wars around ‘science.’ Belief, institutions, and physics “stagnation.”[06:15] The debate that never happened. Why Sibrel refused; what counts as a real debate.[15:45] Physics 101: Van Allen belts. Charged particles, trajectories, dose vs. time.[23:10] “We haven’t gone back” ≠ “we never went.” South Pole analogy; politics, cost, and program shifts.[30:00] Flag shadows, cameras, and remote control. Why the photo/camera myths fail basic engineering.[35:05] Apollo 1, the ‘lemon,’ and what actually happened. Tragedy, design fixes, and conspiratorial leaps.[44:10] Keating’s NASA work. Aviation safety, non-destructive evaluation, and why ‘NASA is useless’ is unserious.[57:10] Hard evidence you can measure: Apollo retroreflectors, seismographs, and international confirmations.Core references:Van Allen radiation belts — NASA overview. NASA ScienceLunar laser retroreflectors (Apollo 11/14/15) — NASA & background. NASASoviet Luna 15 crashed during Apollo 11 (context on USSR verification/competition). NASAPeople, platforms, and episodes mentioned:Buzz Aldrin vs. Bart Sibrel (2002 incident) — background. HISTORYBart Sibrel — Danny Jones episode featuring Charles Duke (context). YouTubeJesse Michels on The Joe Rogan Experience (recent appearance). YouTubeHistorical context:Apollo 1 fire & the “lemon” (hung on a simulator, not the flight capsule). SpaceCultural notes referenced in-episode:Celebrity moon-hoax chatter (recent coverage of the Kardashians’ comments). People.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we're sharing the recent episode of the Digital Social Hour Podcast by Sean Kelly. James Altucher joins the show to break down why the 10,000-hour rule is a myth, how to cheat your way into the top 1%, why obsession matters more than talent, and how AI is now the greatest mentor of all time.From entrepreneurship and failure… to mental health, chess mastery, comedy, and why losing millions hurts more than being broke — this episode goes deep.If you're chasing mastery, reinvention, or clarity in your career… this is the one.📘 What You’ll Learn 🧠 Why the 10,000-hour rule is outdated and how to shortcut mastery🔥 How to reach the top 1% by combining skills instead of grinding years🤖 How to use AI as your mentor, therapist, teacher & coach💭 Why thinking can’t fix depression — but action can💰 The 3 money skills: making it, keeping it, growing it🧩 How to rebuild identity after losing everything📈 The real mindset behind entrepreneurship & risk🎤 Why stand-up comedy teaches business better than business books♟️ Chess strategy that applies to life, business, and competition💡 How writing 10 ideas a day can change your brain & lifeCHAPTERS:00:00 – The 10,000-Hour Rule is BS02:30 – How to Enter the Top 1% Faster04:00 – AI as the Ultimate Mentor05:20 – Mental Health, Depression & Real Recovery07:00 – Losing Millions & Rebuilding From Zero09:20 – Idea Muscle: How Writing 10 Ideas Saved His Life12:00 – Entrepreneurship Reality (Not the Instagram Version)14:45 – Risk, Failure & Business Heartbreaks17:10 – Bitcoin, Wealth, and Why It’s Going to Millions19:40 – Politics, Social Media & the New Attention Economy23:00 – Comedy, Skill Stacking & Becoming World-Class26:40 – Chess, Mindset & Mental Toughness30:20 – Why Gen Z Might Be the Most Talented Generation Ever35:00 – Pressure, Self-Doubt & Finding Your Identity Again🎧 LISTEN ON🍏 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXa...📸 Sean Kelly Instagram: @seanmikekellySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:Tye Sheridan is one of my favorite actors. You might know him as Cyclops in the X-Men movies (Apocalypse, etc.) or as the lead in Ready Player One—which is not only a great movie but also one of my favorite sci-fi books. One of his first films was Mud with Matthew McConaughey.What I didn’t realize: since 2016, while still acting, Tye has also been a serious AI entrepreneur. He and Nikola Todorovic co-founded AI-powered VFX/CGI company, Wonder Dynamics, now an Autodesk company, that built AI tools to make visual effects more accessible.I wanted them both on to talk about how AI will change filmmaking—potentially letting someone like me make a movie that would normally cost hundreds of millions because of VFX—and, just as important, how Tye balanced being a movie star and an entrepreneur at the same time. I also wanted Nikola’s take on where AI is going and whether it will take jobs. Fascinating conversation ahead—here are Tye Sheridan and Nikola Todorovic.Episode Description:James sits down with actor–founder Tye Sheridan and VFX director Nikola Todorovic to unpack how their company’s AI tools (now part of Autodesk) are changing what small teams can pull off—and what that means for studios, budgets, and actual stories. They trace the path from stitching 360° GoPro rigs and a VR proof-of-concept… to a first demo for Steven Spielberg… to a platform that lets indies do big-look work without big-studio burn. You’ll hear clear, non-hyped answers on where text-to-video fits, why they focus on editable 3D over black-box 2D, and a candid take on the only moat that still matters: writing something people care about.What You’ll Learn:A workable cost model for VFX-heavy projects: where 10× savings can come from—and where they can’t.How to run “lean” on real productions: recruiting cross-disciplinary talent and sequencing funding without chasing hype cycles.3D pipelines vs. text-to-video: why pros need full control of lighting, camera, and performance—and how Sora-style tools can still complement the workflow.Story first, always: the audience forgives limited budgets—not lazy scripts.A pragmatic future for studios and indies: expanding voices without erasing human actors or craft.Timestamped Chapters:[00:02:00] “Hollywood is nervous”: James frames the AI anxiety he’s hearing in studio rooms.[00:03:01] A note from James: why Tye’s career (from Mud to Ready Player One) made him the right guest—plus Nikola’s VFX roots.[00:06:03] Tree of Life to tech startup: meeting on set, Chivo’s influence, and early curiosity about tools.[00:13:46] DIY 360° & the Spielberg audition: the VR demo, a $10k experiment, and a first product pitch to Steven.[00:20:12] The question everyone asks: will AI erase studio jobs—or expand what smaller teams can make?[00:24:00] Distribution changed—financing didn’t: presales, streaming, strikes, and why a bigger shift is still coming.[00:27:12] Reality check on budgets: VFX vs. SFX, and how a $100M effects bill could land near $10M.[00:36:02] Running lean + real backers: Founders Fund, MaC VC, Horizons; hiring for overlap (CV/ML/VFX/eng).[00:37:44] From waitlist to workflows: who used the platform first, and a TV case where weeks became days.[00:42:12] Sora vs. 3D pipelines: where text-to-video fits—and why pros avoid black-box 2D for final shots.[01:00:45] “A decade of procrastination”: the founders joke about building a company to avoid writing their own film—then set sights on making it.Additional Resources:Tye Sheridan — filmography and roles (Ready Player One, X-Men). WikipediaNikola Todorovic — Co-founder, Wonder Dynamics (Autodesk company). linkedin.comAutodesk acquires Wonder Dynamics — press release (May 21, 2024). Autodesk NewsAutodesk Flow Studio (formerly Wonder Studio) — product page & docs. AutodeskReady Player One (2018). WikipediaThe Card Counter (2021). WikipediaThe Tree of Life (2011) & Emmanuel “Chivo” Lubezki. IMDbSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode Description:James sits down with astrophysicist Brian Keating for a candid, useful tour through three hot zones: how to think about AI (and where it actually helps), what’s broken in higher ed and admissions right now, and why outsourcing your mood to politics is a losing strategy. You’ll hear first-hand stories (from UC San Diego classrooms to New York City politics), specific ways James and Brian really use AI daily, and a simple framework for protecting your attention and happiness—even when everything feels polarized.What You’ll Learn:A practical AI workflow you can copy today (research prompts, personal “style” bots, and where LLMs fail at original insight). A filter for political noise that keeps 99% of your happiness anchored in health, family, friends, and work you control. What the UCSD admissions/placement findings really mean for preparation and standards (and why “remedial” can mask deeper gaps).A simple admissions/common-sense principle: standards matter; “portfolio” evaluation shouldn’t ignore basic skills. How to use AI without losing your own voice—James’ test for “write it in my style” and why generic outputs still fall short. Timestamped Chapters:[02:00] Loft event stories, comedy beats, and setting the tone for a heavy topic. [05:00] NYC politics, leadership, and the “why would they vote for him?” question. [07:32] Slogans vs. reality: chants, charters, and what words actually imply. [09:30] Economics that sound nice vs. incentives that ruin cities. [12:00] “Don’t outsource your happiness to politicians.” A sanity reset. [20:48] Inside UCSD’s placement data: how did calculus passers miss first-grade algebra? [30:02] Standards, SATs, and what “remedial” hides (plus grade inflation). [77:49] How James and Brian actually use AI; “mad-bot disease” and why voice still matters.Additional ResourcesBrian Keating's "Monday M.A.G.I.C." NewsletterBrian Keating — personal websiteLosing the Nobel Prize: A Story of Cosmology, Ambition, and the Perils of Science’s Highest Honor by Brian KeatingInto the Impossible: Think Like a Nobel Prize Winner by Brian KeatingInto the Impossible Volume 2: Focus Like a Nobel Prize WinnerUniversity of California, San Diego — Brian Keating faculty pageTopics & Documents MentionedUC San Diego Admissions/Placement Working Group report (PDF). UCSD SenateCoverage of UCSD preparedness findingsHamas charters (1988; 2017 update) & “Intifada” contextMatt Wolfe — AI tutorials (site & YouTube)Book.sv - AI book recommendations based on books you've read.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:Are UFOs real or not? For 80 years there have been credible whistleblowers saying the government recovered craft—and even bodies. That’s why I wanted Kent Heckenlively on, the author of Catastrophic Disclosure: The Deep State, Aliens, and the Truth. I’m not here to decide for you. I want to hear the best evidence, ask the obvious questions, and have you help me figure out if we actually got closer to the truth. Let’s find out together. Episode Description:n this episode, James sits down with Kent Heckenlively—attorney, journalist, and coauthor of Catastrophic Disclosure: The Deep State, Aliens, and the Truth—to stress-test the most serious UFO claims on the table right now. Kent argues that humanity is on the brink of a “catastrophic disclosure” moment where long-hidden crash retrieval programs, nonhuman technology, and even bodies will be forced into the open. James plays the role he knows best: friendly skeptic who wants receipts, definitions, and clear thinking.Together they walk through recent congressional hearings, whistleblower testimony, the Yemen orb video, and those strange Peruvian mummies that look either like a bad hoax… or like something we truly don’t understand. They talk about how many people would have to keep secrets for decades, why the best deceptions are mostly true, and how scientific projects like Colossal Biosciences’ “de-extincted” dire wolves show both the promise and the hype of cutting-edge genetics. The result isn’t a verdict on whether aliens are visiting us. It’s a framework. James and Kent map out a way to think about uncertainty, spin, and incentives—whether you’re trying to decide what you believe about UFOs, pandemics, financial crises, or any other story where the truth lives behind NDAs, classified briefings, and very human motives.What You’ll Learn:James’s 85/15 rule for extraordinary claims—stay open without getting swept up. What makes the pilot/whistleblower testimony compelling—and what still doesn’t add up.How definitions and bureaucracy shape the narrative (e.g., how agencies say “not alien” without proving “explained”). A quick due-diligence checklist for wild stories (videos, “mummies,” pressers): provenance, incentives, cross-discipline sanity checks. Why institutional spin and media incentives matter—and how to discount them without becoming cynical. Timestamped Chapters:[00:00] Cold Open — “If big institutions lie once, what else are they hiding?” [02:00] Kent’s stance: 85% “probably real,” 15% “maybe psyop—or brain glitches” [03:00] A Note from James — from skeptic to curious agnostic [04:16] Campfire confessions: trusted friends and the triangle in the Texas sky [06:29] From CIA exposes to UFOs: why this book took two years [07:00] 2023 hearings and “catastrophic disclosure” (vs. “controlled disclosure”) [10:06] Who is David Grusch? Why his language puzzles lawyers and persuades believers [12:32] Congress vs. intel: Burchett, Luna, oversight, and stonewalls [13:50] 25 investigations and a “mushroom cloud” excuse—when reports insult your intelligence [16:06] Firsthand witnesses: Dylan Borland and triangle craft near a NASA hangar [19:15] The hair-split: “real programs, correct personnel—just not alien” [23:30] Definition games: why “not alien” can still leave you with anomalies [25:06] Peru’s three-fingered “mummies”: scans, DNA claims, and what science would need next [30:43] Where the bodies are (allegedly) stored; who’s gotten access [33:42] Genetics sanity check: bananas, chimps, and why 70% similarity is strange here [34:05] Secrets and scale: could thousands keep quiet for 80 years? Greer’s 700 accounts [39:55] Before Sputnik: “vanishing stars” and odd plates in old sky surveys [42:53] NDAs, treason clauses, and why real whistleblowers are scared [44:25] James’s middle path: optimistic skeptic, not a cynic [48:28] The “Yemen orb” footage: multiple sensors, a Hellfire, and unanswered physics [50:30] Contact across a tech gap: Aztecs, galleons, and cell phones in 1025 AD [52:22] Nukes, Trinity, and why someone might be watching our arsenals [53:29] Quantum wormholes or “witches’ spells”? The story vs. the proof [55:27] Living with real unknowns and resisting team-sports thinking [55:59] Lightning round: the 100,000-year alien road-trip question Additional Resources:Guest & BookCatastrophic Disclosure: The Deep State, Aliens, and the Truth — Amazon listing. AmazonKent Heckenlively author page (Amazon). AmazonHearings, Pilots & WhistleblowersCmdr. David Fravor’s written statement to House Oversight (Tic-Tac). House Oversight CommitteeRyan Graves — testimony & org. Congress.govHouse UAP proceedings (hearing materials hub). Congress.govNew Footage ReferencedCBS News recap of Rep. Eric Burlison presenting the “Yemen orb” video. CBS NewsProjects & People MentionedDr. Steven Greer — Disclosure Project site. Dr. Steven GreerVASCO Project (Vanishing & Appearing Sources). Vasco ProjectColossal Biosciences — Dire-wolf project (and scientific explainer). ColossalSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from James:Wisdom Takes Work is Ryan Holiday’s fourth book exploring the Stoic virtues, and this time he’s taking on the big one — wisdom. His earlier books on courage, temperance, and justice were all great conversations, but this one hit me personally. I’ve often thought I had wisdom, only to realize later that I didn’t — or at least not as much as I thought.Ryan’s writing blends ancient Stoic philosophy with modern life in a way that feels both practical and timeless. We talked about how wisdom isn’t something you possess; it’s something you practice. It’s not about having all the answers — it’s about asking better questions, learning through experience, and staying humble enough to admit what you don’t know. Ryan’s back on the show — probably more than any other guest — and each time, I walk away seeing the world differently.Episode Description:James sits down with bestselling author and Stoic philosopher Ryan Holiday to discuss Wisdom Takes Work, the newest addition to his series on the cardinal virtues. Together they unpack what “wisdom” really means — not as a static trait, but as an ongoing practice of curiosity, humility, and doing hard things.The conversation ranges from the limits of AI (“great at knowledge, terrible at wisdom”) to the importance of reading history, counting names on a plaque instead of trusting bad data, and learning by doing. Ryan also shares new insights from his upcoming biography of Admiral James Stockdale, and how the act of challenging himself as a writer mirrors the Stoic pursuit of wisdom itself.What You’ll Learn:Why wisdom isn’t about knowing — it’s about learning, questioning, and doing.How AI amplifies knowledge but can’t replace human judgment or discernment.Why experience, pain, and humility are necessary ingredients for growth.How Ryan’s research on Admiral Stockdale is changing his approach to writing and life.Practical ways to cultivate wisdom — from reading and travel to mentoring and open-mindedness.Timestamped Chapters:[00:00] Introduction: The difference between knowledge and wisdom [02:54] A Note from James — Why wisdom is the hardest virtue [05:37] AI’s limits and the danger of overconfidence [08:57] “Wisdom takes work”: Stoic principles in action [11:35] The verbs of virtue — acting with courage, justice, and discipline [13:12] Ryan’s AI experiment and the Naval Academy plaque [16:10] Knowing what you don’t know — humility as wisdom [18:30] Parenting, ego, and learning to argue less [22:00] Why age doesn’t guarantee wisdom [25:10] The trap of resisting change and staying “the smartest person in the room” [27:00] Adapting to new generations and ideas [31:00] Is wisdom a talent or a learned skill? [34:00] How books and mentors shape a wise mind [37:00] Raising curious kids in the age of MrBeast and AI [40:20] Teaching curiosity and lifelong learning [42:25] Practicing wisdom: reading, travel, and mentorship [47:00] Learning by doing — the pain and reward of hard work [50:20] Writing, research, and the lesson of David McCullough [53:07] Why Ryan’s next book is his hardest yet — Admiral Stockdale’s story [55:50] Finding new mentors and growing past your comfort zone [57:14] Living the Stoic life — success, service, and perspectiveAdditional Resources:Ryan Holiday – Wisdom Takes WorkRyan Holiday’s other Stoic virtue books: Courage Is Calling Discipline Is Destiny Right Thing, Right NowAdmiral James Stockdale – U.S. Naval Academy BiographyRobert Caro – Working: Researching, Interviewing, WritingDavid McCullough – Truman and John AdamsRyan Holiday’s The Daily Stoic Podcast – SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from JamesTupac Shakur—one of the greatest rap artists ever—was shot and killed almost two decades ago. What else is there left to say about him? What new things can be said?Well, Jeff Pearlman’s new book, Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur, takes on that challenge. In our conversation, we talk about what Jeff uncovered in his research, why he wanted to write another Tupac book, and what made this one different.But first, a little story. Back in the ’90s, I was running a company that built websites. Around 1997 or ’98, Tupac’s mom wanted to release a new album of his music and build a website around it. I went in to pitch the project—$90,000, which would’ve covered payroll for another month. I needed that deal.So I show up, ready to impress. Tupac’s manager says, “Okay, here’s my computer. Show me what you’ve got.” And I realize—I’ve never used a Windows machine in my life. I’d only ever used Macs. I couldn’t even figure out how to turn it on.I had a computer science degree. I was a software engineer. I’d been running this company for years. But in that moment, I had to admit: “I don’t know how to use this machine.” He laughed me out of the room. Literally.That was the day I learned that even the smartest pitch can fall apart if you forget to check which operating system you’re using.Anyway—what else is there to talk about with Tupac Shakur? Jeff Pearlman and I figured it out.Episode DescriptionIn this episode, James sits down with bestselling author and journalist Jeff Pearlman (The Last Folk Hero, Showtime, Sweetness) to talk about his latest book, Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur.Pearlman explores the contradictions, brilliance, and tragedy of Tupac’s life—how a performing arts kid from Baltimore became the poetic voice of West Coast hip hop, and how his complex identity was shaped by the Black Panther movement, celebrity culture, and the rise of gangsta rap.James and Jeff unpack Tupac’s evolution from Digital Underground hype man to solo artist, his influence on music and film, and the deeper meaning behind songs like Brenda’s Got a Baby. They also trace the events leading up to his death, separating myth from reality, and reflect on what Tupac’s legacy might have become if he’d lived.What You’ll LearnWhy Tupac’s “gangster” persona was more performance than realityHow his upbringing under a Black Panther mother shaped his worldviewThe untold story behind Brenda’s Got a Baby—and how Pearlman found the real “baby” years laterThe truth about Tupac’s relationship with Biggie Smalls and the events that led to both of their deathsWhy Tupac might have gone on to become a political or cultural leader, not just a rapperHow hip hop evolved from the storytelling of the ’90s to today’s more fragmented soundTimestamped Chapters[00:00] Introduction – James shares his connection to Tupac’s world [02:43] A Note from James – The web pitch that went wrong [05:00] Why Jeff Pearlman wrote a Tupac book [07:00] The challenge of writing outside his comfort zone [09:00] Tupac’s background and the myth of the “gangsta” image [11:00] The evolution of rap from the ’80s to now [16:00] What made Tupac’s art different from his peers [18:30] Tupac as a natural actor—and how he almost won an Oscar [21:00] Was his “gangster” side authentic or performance? [23:30] The night Tupac was killed—what really happened [26:00] How the East Coast–West Coast rivalry became fatal [30:00] The origin of Brenda’s Got a Baby and the real-life people behind it [35:00] Tupac’s literal storytelling and emotional honesty [36:30] How he might have evolved as an artist—or politician [38:00] The conversation that inspired a future Newark city councilman [40:00] Hip hop’s intelligence, legacy, and misunderstood brilliance [45:00] From Ice-T to Death Row: how labels, power, and politics shaped the scene [49:00] Wrapping up with gratitude—and a little hair envyAdditional ResourcesJeff Pearlman – Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac ShakurJeff Pearlman’s Official WebsiteTupac Shakur – Brenda’s Got a Baby (Official Video)Digital Underground – Same Song (Tupac’s first verse)FBI Case File: Death of Tupac ShakurFilm: Juice (1992), starring Tupac Shakur and Omar EppsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A Note from JamesOh my gosh—I was scared after this one. In this episode, I learned about what’s really on the dark web… and the even scarier stuff on what’s called the deep web.Eric O’Neill—who, by the way, is the former FBI agent who brought down Robert Hanssen, the biggest double agent in U.S. history—joined me for this conversation. Hanssen was the FBI’s top analyst on the Soviet Union, and at the same time, he was secretly working for the Soviet Union—for twenty-two years. Eric was the one who caught him. There was even a movie made about it—Breach (2007).Now Eric has written a book called Spies, Lies, and Cybercrime: Cybersecurity Tactics to Outsmart Hackers and Disarm Scammers. And honestly, it’s terrifying what’s out there right now—the dark web, the black markets, the cyberattacks, the scams that most of us have no idea are happening in the background of our digital lives.I’ll let Eric tell the stories.Episode DescriptionIn this episode, James talks with Eric O’Neill—former FBI counterintelligence operative and the man who captured the most notorious spy in U.S. history—about the unseen cyber battlefield shaping our world today. O’Neill explains how hackers, state actors, and scammers exploit human psychology far more than technology, and why every one of us is a potential target.From the lessons of his undercover work tracking Robert Hanssen to the rise of ransomware and AI-assisted phishing, O’Neill offers both a chilling reality check and a practical guide for staying safe in the digital age. He and James break down how modern espionage has moved online—and what ordinary people can do to protect themselves before it’s too late.What You’ll LearnHow Eric O’Neill captured Robert Hanssen, the most damaging spy in FBI historyWhy modern cybercrime depends more on human manipulation than hacking codeWhat really happens on the dark web and how it fuels global criminal networksHow AI is changing the speed and sophistication of digital attacksSimple but critical steps you can take right now to protect your data and identityTimestamped Chapters[00:00] Introduction — James sets the stage for a chilling conversation [02:15] Who is Eric O’Neill? The story behind capturing Robert Hanssen [07:45] The day Hanssen was caught — inside the FBI sting [13:10] From spycraft to cybercrime — how espionage went digital [17:30] The real difference between the dark web and the deep web [22:00] Why hackers target people, not systems [27:40] Social engineering and the psychology of manipulation [32:15] AI and the next generation of scams [37:55] How to recognize phishing and digital traps [44:20] Why cybersecurity starts with self-awareness [49:10] Lessons from the field — how espionage teaches us to think critically [54:05] The future of cyber warfare and personal protection [59:00] Final thoughts — the cost of complacencyAdditional ResourcesEric O’Neill – Spies, Lies, and Cybercrime: Cybersecurity Tactics to Outsmart Hackers and Disarm ScammersEric O’Neill – Gray Day: My Undercover Mission to Expose America’s First Cyber SpyFilm: Breach (2007) – starring Ryan Phillippe and Chris CooperFBI Official Case Summary – Robert Hanssen Espionage CaseEric O’Neill Official WebsiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.