Watson-Howland

Sting & The Police went from playing to 6 people on his first American performance (broke, on welfare, with a wife and baby) to selling out stadiums with The Police and selling 100 million records worldwide. This deep dive into Sting's biography reveals the brutal years of rejection between obscurity and stardom that nobody talks about, decoded from his memoir Broken Music.Subscribe for more breakdowns on how icons escape their limitations and build legendary careers.Expect to learn:-How Sting escaped a working-class trap in Newcastle and broke the cycle of generational regret-Why obsession and volume beat talent alone: the forensic practice method Sting used to decode Beatles songs-The truth about overnight success: the humiliating rejections and 10+ years of grinding before The Police broke through-How Roxanne became a classic after almost being rejected by the band's manager-Why Sting left The Police at their peak and what drove his need to keep escaping-The father-wound pattern that fuels most male outliers: and how Sting channeled it into 100 million+ records sold-What separates artists who quit from those who make it: Sting's "don't stop" mentality through welfare, empty clubs, and doubt-The escape code Sting discovered: how your obsession is data telling you how to get out00:00 The Humble Beginnings of Sting01:28 The Trap and the Escape Code02:25 The Drive to Prove Himself03:22 The Obsession with Music05:01 The Grind and Humiliation07:57 The Turning Point: Meeting Stewart Copeland08:48 Roxanne and the Breakthrough10:32 The Rise and Fall of The Police11:07 Lessons from Sting's Journey12:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Sting's Memoir Broken Music (Amazon): https://amzn.to/3Nnc4g7What's YOUR "this is how you escape" moment? What obsession keeps pulling you back even when it doesn't make logical sense? Drop your escape code in the comments. I’m rooting for you. 👇Best Bits:"There's something in the driven and compulsive nature of this obsession that's unusual, something in the unconscious saying, this is how you escape. This is how you escape. his how you escape.”"I will travel the world, be the head of a large family. I'll own a big house in the country. I will be wealthy and I will be famous." [He achieved all of them]"We'll play with equal passion to six people or 600. Driving ourselves thousands of sleepless miles, loading and unloading our gear...we were the dogs of war and nothing could stop us.""In my quest to become unique, I have become a statistic.""Success and failure are on the same road. You just have to keep going.”"It's just that nothing else I ever did was going to work. I was merely treading water."#Sting #ThePolice #MusicBiography

Networking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them with Bertie GregoryWhat common mistakes do people make when networking or looking for mentors? Wildlife filmmaker Bertie Gregory sheds light on the importance of forming genuine connections and offers practical tips for successful networking. Expect to learn the three essential rules of networking and how to handle criticism constructively. Are you making your interactions too transactional? What should you do when presented with opportunities in your field? Bertie shares his insights on these questions and more.00:00 Common Networking Mistakes00:08 The Importance of Friendships in Wildlife Filmmaking00:37 Effective Networking Strategies01:58 Three Rules of Networking04:31 Dealing with Criticism and Haters07:39 Final Thoughts on Handling Online Haters

Vagabonding isn’t “quitting life”, it’s a practical long-term travel mindset for anyone who wants more freedom, less fear, and more time-rich living.Rolf Potts is a travel writer and bestselling author of Vagabonding (the modern classic on extended travel).What’s the biggest thing keeping you from long-term travel right now: money, fear, responsibility, or simply not giving yourself permission?Subscribe for more long-form conversations on travel, purpose, and designing a life you actually want.Expect to learn:–How to give yourself “permission” to travel (even if no one in your life gets it).–Why “time is the truest form of wealth” and how travel makes that real.–How to travel longer on less money by stepping outside the tourist bubble and into local rhythms.–Why slow travel beats rushed itineraries (and how it unlocks better deals + better stories).–Smartphone independence: simple ways to protect presence, serendipity, and real-world connection on the road.–Why “know your options, not your destiny” is the best planning rule for long-term travel.–How routines (gym, journaling, quests) can make travel deeper not boring.–Travel as pilgrimage: how walking (in cities or nature) can reset attention and reduce anxiety.00:00 Introduction to Solo Traveling00:12 First Vagabonding Journey01:37 Motivations and Realizations02:28 Impact of Early Travels03:45 Long-Term Travel Lifestyle05:19 Writing Vagabonding06:19 Travel Philosophy and Advice11:42 Funding Early Travels13:22 Experiencing Local Economies17:33 Slow Travel and Serendipity23:42 Challenges of Modern Travel30:21 Off the Beaten Path36:30 Embracing the Unexpected in Travel37:24 Challenging Journeys and Personal Growth39:16 Adventures on the Mekong River42:26 The Joys of Youthful Exploration44:21 Balancing Routine and Adventure53:20 Spiritual Reflections and Nature's Wisdom01:02:42 Final Thoughts and Advice for Young Travelers01:05:37 Start Your Own PodcastRolf’s Work: Rolf Potts (official site): https://rolfpotts.com Vagabonding (book page): https://rolfpotts.com/books/vagabonding/ Paris Writing Workshops (Rolf’s Paris workshops info): https://rolfpotts.com/about/paris-writing-workshop/ Paris Writing Workshops (main site): https://pariswritingworkshops.com Vagabonding (official book site): https://vagabonding.netJacob’s WorkFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppA Podcast blueprint (Skool): https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385 Website: https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com

Evolutionary psychologist Dr. Catherine Salmon discusses how evolution shapes our desires, attractions, and mate preferences. She delves into sex differences in mate selection, including the traits that make males and females more attractive to each other and the importance of these traits in the ancestral and modern environments. Dr. Salmon also explores the genetic and environmental factors that influence behavior and how understanding these mechanisms can help us comprehend human behavior better.00:00 Introduction to Evolution and Attraction00:13 Sex Differences in Mate Preferences01:14 Indicators of Female Attractiveness02:07 Qualities of a Good Mother02:44 Female Preferences in Male Partners04:09 Importance of Commitment and Resources05:10 Modern Considerations and Social Support05:39 Impact of Parenting Structures07:51 The Role of Genetics and Environment09:50 Environmental Influence on Behavior____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Harvard Physicist Avi Loeb reveals why Neil deGrasse Tyson, Brian Cox & NASA gets the 3I/ATLAS alien theory wrong and exposes the "echo chamber" problem in modern science. As the head of the Galileo Project, Loeb argues we must stop listening to "commentators" and start searching for technological signatures before it’s too late.00:00 Neil deGrasse Tyson's Misconception01:22 Einstein's Major Mistakes03:26 The Humility of Science04:10 Challenges in Modern Physics08:04 Encouraging Innovation in Academia16:49 The Search for Extraterrestrial Life23:22 The Importance of Independent Thought38:50 The Importance of Technological Signatures39:41 The Limitations of Human Imagination41:38 The Unknown Unknowns in Science43:49 The Search for Extraterrestrial Life45:11 The Role of Private Space Industry48:10 The Case of 3I/ATLAS50:39 The Need for a New Approach in Astronomy54:40 The Potential of Interstellar Objects57:34 The Future of Space Exploration01:12:12 The Cost of Space Archaeology01:23:16 The Impact of Extraterrestrial Contact01:26:37 The Limitations of Viewing God as a Parent01:27:28 The Power of Optimism in Life and Relationships01:29:04 The Search for Extraterrestrial Life01:30:58 The Big Bang and the Creation of the Universe01:35:39 Mars Colonization and Space Habitats01:39:25 The Future of Space Propulsion01:46:26 The Risks and Rewards of AI01:56:42 The Importance of Youthful Curiosity01:57:30 Belief in a Higher Being and the Quest for Immortality02:02:19 Closing Thoughts and Future EndeavorsAvi Loeb’s Work:-Avi Loeb’s Medium: ⁠avi-loeb.medium.com⁠ -Avi’s Book "Extraterrestrial": ⁠https://www.amazon.co.uk/Extraterrestrial-Search-Intelligent-Beyond-Earth-ebook/dp/B087N7D3YZ?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1⁠ Jacob’s WorkWebsite: ⁠https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com⁠

Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb explains why Neil deGrasse Tyson and Brian Cox "don't have the right" to criticize his research, because they're not practicing scientists publishing peer-reviewed papers.Should science communicators like Neil deGrasse Tyson be allowed to publicly criticize active researchers, or does that cross a line when they're not publishing papers themselves?Avi Loeb is a Harvard astronomy professor, bestelling author of "Extraterrestrial," leading researcher on interstellar objects and the search for alien technology.Subscribe for more unfiltered takes from world-class scientists challenging the scientific establishment.Expect to learn:-Why Avi Loeb says science popularizers like Neil deGrasse Tyson prioritize being "liked" over rigorous research.-The difference between practicing scientists (publishing papers) and science communicators (talking about others' work).-Why echo chambers in the scientific community make even credible voices risk being wrong (Einstein's 1935-1940 mistakes as proof).-Why Loeb doesn't use social media and how that frees him from popularity contests in science.BEST QUOTES:"In order to speak with credibility about science, you need to be a practicing scientist."“Brian Cox and Neil deGrasse Tyson. They don't have the right to argue against me. I wrote more than a dozen papers about 3I/ATLAS… they haven't written a single paper over the past decade.""It's just like someone sitting on the bench making statements about the players in the field.""They're motivated by whatever the majority of opinion is, whatever is being liked by others."#AviLoeb#NeilDeGrasseTyson#BrianCOx#astrophysics

Navigating Happiness and Balance: A Candid Conversation with Stanford PhD Student Ashley MosesIn this episode, we explore the intricate concepts of happiness and balance with Stanford PhD student Ashley Moses. We discuss the human pursuit of happiness, the role of freedom and health in achieving it, and how our definitions of happiness can change over time. The conversation also delves into the challenges of maintaining balance in various aspects of life such as work, relationships, and personal health. Ashley shares her personal strategies and struggles in trying to find equilibrium in her daily life, providing a relatable and insightful perspective on managing well-being amidst the demands of a PhD journey.00:00 The Nature of Happiness and Human Motivation00:34 Finding Balance in Life01:24 Personal Definitions of Happiness01:56 The Role of Freedom in Happiness03:58 Balancing Needs and Desires06:22 Daily Practices for Balance and Happiness10:10 Challenges and Sacrifices in Pursuit of Goals13:18 The Importance of Rest and Small Wins____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Rejection therapy is the fastest way to build real confidence and Gregory Russell Benedikt explains how “terrified action” can break your fear, self-doubt, and people-pleasing for good better than anyone.Gregory Russell Benedikt is a TEDx sensation (“How Being Bold Will Change Your Life”) and life coach helping people live a story worth telling.Subscribe for more long-form interviews on psychology, self-improvement, and the habits that change your life.00:00 Rejection therapy: the most painful rejection and why it still shapes us03:20 The “mask”: why fitting in kills confidence (and how to drop it)07:27 Finance burnout: quitting with no plan when fear is smaller than staying stuck07:27 End-of-life regret: the quote that forced the identity change17:47 “Just start”: lowering friction to launch your podcast/creative project40:14 Consistency when success is invisible (this is what hard feels like)44:36 Courage defined: terrified action and the 5-second rule50:35 The 100-day rejection challenge: swimming pool story + rejection reps53:43 Live a story worth telling: commitment devices, community, and momentum01:05:55 How the TEDx talk changed his life (and why it changes slower than you expect)01:01:11 The best self-improvement questions: ideal day + “what costs am I willing to pay?”FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAPodcast blueprint (Skool): https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Gregory’s Work:Gregory’s website (coaching): https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/Gregory on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryrussellbenediktGregory on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregoryrussellbenedikt/Gregory’s TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezygvBTXeeQJacob’s Work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland Website: https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com

How Surviving Severe Burns Shaped Dan Ariely's Approach to Reducing Human SufferingDan Ariely shares his personal story of surviving severe burns covering 70% of his body at the age of 18. He discusses the excruciating treatments, including multiple skin transplants and the ongoing battle with scar tissue. Ariely describes how this life-altering experience led him to a career focused on alleviating human suffering through the study of psychology and experimental methods. He highlights the lessons learned about pain, control, and human resilience, and how these insights drive his current work to identify and improve areas where humanity underperforms.00:00 Surviving Severe Burns: A Life-Changing Event01:06 The Painful Process of Skin Transplants02:56 The Battle Against Skin Shrinkage05:26 Psychological and Physical Challenges06:49 From Patient to Researcher: A Journey into Psychology07:32 A Mission to Improve Human Conditions____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

In this episode, jacob and guest Stanford PhD student Ashley Moses delve into the complexities of pursuing a PhD. They discuss the factors influencing the decision to undertake a PhD, such as industry requirements and personal motivations. Ashley shares her journey from being fascinated by science in her childhood to realizing her passion for neuroscience, and her eventual pivot away from becoming a professor. The conversation touches upon the duration of PhD programs, the impact of existential crises on career choices, and the appeal of entrepreneurship for those seeking freedom and flexibility in their careers.00:00 Is a PhD Worth It?01:07 Duration and Variability of PhD Programs02:00 Personal Journey into Neuroscience03:44 Facing Existential Crises05:43 Why Not Become a Professor?07:35 Choosing the Entrepreneur Path____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Behavioral genetics is destroying what we’ve been told about parenting, school “quality,” and personality. Robert Plomin explains why “parents don’t matter (in the way you think)” and why school quality can explain as little as 1% of SAT/GCSE variation after correcting for socioeconomic status.Robert Plomin, leading behavioural geneticist at King’s College London with 50 years in psychology/genetics research (from the pre-DNA era to today’s polygenic scores) Subscribe for more long-form interviews with world-class experts (and share this with one parent or student who needs it)Expect to learn:–Why the “shared family environment” (nurture) often explains surprisingly little—so siblings can be wildly different.–The school shocker: why “great schools” may explain ~4% of GCSE variance, and ~1% after adjusting for socioeconomic sorting.00:00 Behavioral genetics: "We got it wrong for 50 years" (nature vs nurture flips)00:36 "Everything is heritable": what psychology missed (and why DNA changed the game)01:46 The DNA revolution in behavioral genetics (from twin studies to genome sequencing)02:32 "Nurture" isn't what you think: why shared family environment explains little07:13 Genetics and personal preferences: where you live, who you are, and free will13:35 What heritability means (and the #1 misunderstanding about the 80% figure)13:35 Twin studies vs adoption studies: why identical twins reared apart matter20:05 If it's not family, what is it? Non-shared environment and "stochastic" life outcomes30:27 Polygenic scores: predicting education, schizophrenia risk, and massive effect sizes30:27 The "School Scam": why school quality can explain ~1% of GCSE variance (after SES)38:59 Ethical implications of genetic testing: Gattaca, prevention, and the totalitarian fear51:05 The power of genetics in shaping personality: why siblings differ so dramatically51:52 The dark side of genetic experiments: Three Identical Strangers and the wicked psychiatrist53:21 Identical twins reared apart: astonishing similarities in behavior, jobs, and even hobbies59:29 "Parents matter, but don't make a difference": what parenting can't change (and what it can)01:04:12 Understanding and accepting individual differences (shyness, confidence, going with the flow)01:04:12 Attachment theory vs evidence: relationships as descriptions, not destiny01:18:53 The role of DNA testing in modern life: prevention, couples screening, and Nucleus Genomics01:18:53 DNA testing for couples + recessive disorders (the prevention case that eliminates diseases)01:32:34 Meditation, self-knowledge, and "becoming who you are" over time (final advice)FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAPodcast blueprint (Skool): https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Robert Plomin book mentioned: Blueprint — https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39074555-blueprintCompany mentioned for consumer DNA testing: Nucleus Genomics — https://nucleusgenomics.comJacob’s Work Website: https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com

In 2025 I interviewed the co-founder of SpaceX… then went back to cleaning toilets. Here are the 5 rules that stopped me quitting and made the wins stack.Subscribe if you’re building your vehicle in 2026 and you’re not stopping!Expect to learn:–How to stop quitting when results are delayed (and why most people leave right before it works).–The “don’t stop” rule that compounds wins even on your worst weeks (uni deadlines, burnout, zero motivation).–How to find your vehicle (the craft/mission you’ll suffer for long enough to win) using a 60-second prompt.–Why effort is not the metric: the outcome-based system that made the show grow (big guests, big ideas, retention).–The incentive shift that changed everything: how to pitch so people actually say yes (podcast guests, mentors, collabs, clients).–The “baseline reset” trap: why winning can still feel like losing, and how to stop feeling behind.–The 85-year-old-you framework to set non-negotiables and delete distractions without losing your mind.–A simple 30-day reset challenge to rebuild consistency without needing motivation.00:00 From Cleaning Toilets to Interviewing SpaceX Co-Founder: Why This Video Exists00:40 Rule #1: Don't Stop - Most People Quit Right Before It Works00:55 The Talking to the Void Phase: 50 Views, No Money, Still Working Weekends01:18 The Baseline Resets: Why Winning Still Feels Like Losing01:42 The 30-Day Reset: Show Up Daily Even If It's Small02:09 Rule #2: Find Your Vehicle - The Craft That Compounds Your Life02:35 The 60-Second Vehicle Finder Questions - Answer These Honestly03:36 Rule #3: Outcomes Over Effort - Double Down on What Actually Works03:50 What Worked in 2025: Big Guests, Big Ideas, In-Person Energy04:10 What Didn't Work: Busy Work That Feels Productive But Isn't04:44 Rule #4: Incentives - How to Pitch So People Say Yes05:20 The Email Shift: Here's What You Get vs Just Come On My Podcast06:45 Social Proof That Got Replies: Top 7% Spotify, BBC Photographer08:15 The Week I Nearly Quit: The Pause for a Week Trap09:10 The 2-Day Rule: One Miss Is a Mistake; Two Misses Is a New Habit10:49 Rule #5: The 85-Year-Old You Framework - Non-Negotiables for 202611:15 What Would Make 85-Year-Old You Miserable vs What You'd Love11:50 My 2026 Non-Negotiables Checklist - Simple, Repeatable, Realistic13:04 Comment I'm Not Stopping Plus Date - 30-Day Check-In Challenge13:20 Next Video: Sting's Autobiography Plus Huge 2026 Guests Coming13:42 Final Message: Don't Stop, Stay in the GameWhat’s your 2026 vehicle and what’s the smallest daily action you can do so you don’t break the chain?

AI companions aren’t just “tools” they’re competing with your friendships, your colleagues, and your dating life.Julie Freeland Fisher (a researcher at the Clayton Christensen Institute and expert on disruptive innovation & AI’s impact on relationships). Subscribe for more long-form conversations on AI, human behavior, and the future of society.Answer me this: AI can reduce loneliness fast… but could it quietly dismantle human connection long-term? In the comments!Expect to learn:–How AI companions exploit the loneliness epidemic and why that’s a classic disruptive innovation foothold.–Why “anthropomorphic” AI changes how we relate to technology (and to each other).–What “social capital” really is, and why it predicts opportunity, resilience, and economic mobility.–The workplace warning sign: AI power users reporting they trust AI more than colleagues and what that does to teams and culture.–How AI companions can “alleviate loneliness” short-term while potentially scaling long-term isolation.–The hidden risk of emotional offloading (and why “cognitive offloading” isn’t the only concern).–What policies and real-world “third places” (youth clubs, sports, green spaces) can do to protect human connection.–A more hopeful path: using AI to connect people to people (matchmaking, network-building) instead of replacing relationships.00:00 The Impact of AI on Our Lives: Why AI Companions Change Human Connection00:59 Disruptive Innovation Explained (Clay Christensen’s Real Definition)02:03 Classic Disruptive Innovation Examples: Sony Walkman, Personal Computers04:28 Is AI Actually Disruptive? The Business Model vs the Technology06:59 AI in Education & Business Models: Tutoring, Access, and the Cost Curve09:25 Social Capital Explained: How Relationships Create Opportunity14:03 AI Companions vs Colleagues: Trust, Work Culture, and Burnout Signals21:00 The Future of AI & Relationships: Attachment, Empathy, and What “Better” Means28:55 Investing in Pro-Social Relationships (And Using AI Without Replacing People)31:57 Decline of Religion & Community: The Need for Secular “Third Places”32:45 Online Life, Social Media, and the Loneliness Feedback Loop34:02 Social Skills in the AI Era: Building Confidence Through Real-World Reps34:51 Parenting & Early Socialization: Offline Play as a Competitive Advantage35:47 Offline Community Building: Green Spaces, Sports, and Local Civic Infrastructure38:24 AI Companion Apps & Loneliness: Why This Market Is Growing So Fast43:39 Disruptive Innovation Meets the Social Fabric: Hidden Costs of Convenience51:34 Practical Advice for Human Connection: Better Conversations, Deeper Networks56:12 Final Thoughts: Protect Face-to-Face Connection in an AI-Driven WorldJulie’s WorkJulie Freeland Fisher’s Substack: “Connection Error” https://juliafreelandfisher.substack.comJulie Freeland Fisher on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-freeland-fisher-4162466Jacob:Website: https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland

The Evolutionary Attraction to Dark Romance: Why Women Seek MasculinityIn this episode, Catherine Salmon sheds light on the allure of Dark Romance and the evolutionary reasons behind women's attraction to masculine traits. She explores the balance between assertiveness and kindness in men, the environmental factors influencing these preferences, and the role of psychological mechanisms in shaping relationships. Catherine also delves into the concept of 'nice guys,' the impact of upbringing and genetics on altruism, and the complexities of human social interactions in both historical and modern contexts.00:00 Introduction to Dark Romance and Masculinity00:17 The Appeal of Masculine Traits01:29 Dark Romance Tropes and Female Attraction02:13 Societal Views on Masculinity03:55 Nice Guys and Social Dynamics06:41 Evolutionary Perspectives on Niceness08:36 Altruism and Social Cooperation10:18 Philanthropy and Altruistic Behavior____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Willpower isn’t the answer to bad habits. Neuroscientist Dr. Jud Brewer shows what actually changes behavior (and it’s simpler than you think). Dr. Judson Brewer is a psychiatrist + neuroscientist and Director of Research & Innovation at Brown University’s Mindfulness Center. Subscribe for more long-form interviews on science, self-improvement, and human behavior.Expect to Learn:Why willpower fails under stress (and why the prefrontal cortex is a fragile “control” strategy). How habits are shaped by reward learning and why awareness is the real “lever” for change. How to use mindful attention to make cravings feel less rewarding (+ the smoking example that surprises almost everyone).The habit loop framework: trigger → behavior → result (and why “triggers” are often the least important part). What the default mode network is, and why it’s linked to self-referential thinking and craving. How “curiosity” becomes a bigger, better offer than worry, craving, or self-judgment. A practical grounding tool for anxious moments: five-finger breathing (and why it helps bring the brain back online). How anxiety can function like a habit and what Dr. Jud’s research has found with app-based training (including major symptom reduction reported in his work).00:00 — How to break bad habits: start with how your brain learns (not willpower)00:30 — Willpower is a myth: why “just stop” fails under stress02:16 — Neuroscience of habit formation: reward learning, dopamine, and prediction error02:44 — The real key to habit change: awareness (why attention rewires behavior)04:22 — Real-world habit change: smoking + overeating (making cravings feel unrewarding)07:54 — Triggers explained: why environment matters less than the reward outcome15:47 — Mindfulness + the default mode network: self-focus, craving, and meditation25:35 — Curiosity beats cravings: the “bigger better offer” for breaking habits40:24 — Practical tools for anxiety + habit change (what to do in the moment)44:13 — Dr. Jud’s anxiety story: how mindfulness helped panic + stress symptoms44:28 — Empathy → evidence-based programs: turning patient needs into training systems46:19 — Anxiety meds reality check: why “gold standard” helps only a minority long-term48:35 — Building an anxiety app: using neuroscience to train skills (not dependency)50:04 — Can anxiety be a habit? negative reinforcement, worry loops, and action bias55:40 — Exercise + healthy routines: helpful… unless it becomes an avoidance habit01:01:49 — Social media & AI addiction: engineered attention + RLHF “sycophant” bots01:16:02 — Meaning, service, and curiosity: philosophical reflections to end the episode01:19:22 — Final links, program mention, and closing remarksJudson’s WorkGoing Beyond Anxiety (program): https://www.goingbeyondanxiety.com Dr. Jud’s site (resources + programs): https://drjud.com Dr. Jud bio / research background: https://mindfulness.sph.brown.edu/people/judson-brewer Brown University researcher profile: https://vivo.brown.edu/display/jbrewer2 https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com

What is a 'kook' in surf culture?Explore the contrast between novice surfers and local experts as Sam Bleakley, a longboard surf champion, delves into the origins of this term. Hear about the historical context from Hollywood’s influence to global surf communities. Learn how experienced surfers like Stephanie Gilmore and Kelly Slater approach newcomers with wisdom and inclusivity. Expect to gain insights on the in-group and out-group dynamics within surfing, and why it’s key to share knowledge for safer, more enjoyable experiences. Finally, get a glimpse into Sam’s advice for his younger self on navigating the surf industry.00:00 Introduction to the Concept of a Kook00:04 Hollywood's Influence on Surf Culture00:45 The Kook vs. Local Dynamic01:25 Surfing Wisdom from Legends01:57 Broader Implications of Ingroup-Outgroup Bias03:24 The Role of Teachers in Surfing04:53 Final Thoughts and Personal Advice

Is your oral microbiome quietly driving cavities, fatigue, brain fog, and even dementia and heart disease, while your dentist just keeps “fixing” teeth?Functional dentist Dr. Staci Whitman breaks down why your mouth is actually the front of your gut, how mouth breathing and bleeding gums can trigger whole‑body inflammation, and why humans (and our pets) are the only species routinely getting dental decay, and what that says about our modern diet. She explains how signs like bad breath, constant snacking, white‑coated tongue, crumbling teeth, and poor sleep can be early red flags for blood sugar issues, autoimmune disease, gut problems, and even increased risk of dementia and cancer, long before standard tests pick them up.You’ll learn the 80/20 steps to become as close to cavity‑free for life as possible: how to eat and when to eat for a healthier oral microbiome, why to stop sipping all day, how mouth breathing at night wrecks both your teeth and deep sleep, and how tools like flossing, tongue scraping, nasal hygiene, and mouth tape (used safely) can transform your energy, focus, and long‑term healthspan. If you care about longevity, but have only focused on your gut, gym, or glucose, this conversation will permanently change how seriously you take your mouth.00:00 Introduction to the Oral Microbiome01:28 The Importance of Oral Health03:24 Diet and the Oral Microbiome06:20 Oral Hygiene Practices06:55 The Role of Saliva and Breathing14:23 Oral Microbiome Testing19:01 Functional Dentistry and Future Directions33:10 Oral Health as a Reflection of Overall Health33:43 Impact of Mouth Breathing on Health35:38 Nasal Breathing and Sinus Hygiene36:58 Identifying and Addressing Mouth Breathing During Sleep38:48 The Importance of Airway Health40:48 Functional Dentistry and Early Interventions42:52 Practical Tips for Better Oral Health49:05 Nutritional Deficiencies and Oral Health53:17 Key Takeaways for a Healthy Oral Microbiome56:46 Final Thoughts and AdvicePodcast blueprint (Skool): https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppADr Staci Whitman Website: https://doctorstaci.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/doctor_staci/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@doctor_staci/featuredFeed Your Good Guys (Fygg): fygg.com*The Institute for Functional Dentistry: functionaldentistry.org Bloom Kids: bloomkidsdentistry.comJacob’s links YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland Website: https://www.jacobjwatsonhowland.com#oralhealth #mouthbreathing #oralmicrobiome #dentistry #andrewhuberman

In this episode, Ralph Merkle explores the fascinating world of nanobots and their potential to revolutionize medicine. Learn how these microscopic machines, operating at the molecular level, could offer unprecedented precision in medical interventions, possibly curing diseases at their core and even repairing vital body systems. Ralph Merkle discusses the technology's scale, the challenges faced by chemists in creating these nanobots, and how they could address medical emergencies like heart attacks with devices such as respirocytes. Gain insight into the future of medical technology and its potential impact on human longevity.00:00 Introduction to Nanobots01:22 The Scale of Nanobots02:25 How Humans Utilize Nanobots04:11 Medical Applications of Nanobots06:08 Respirocytes: A Case Study11:31 Future Implications and Conclusion____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, a therapist specializing in high net worth individuals, discusses the profound isolation and unique mental health challenges faced by ultra-successful people. Drawing from his experiences working with both marginalized communities and wealthy families, Dr. Hokemeyer examines the misconceptions about wealthy individuals and the societal factors contributing to their isolation. He also explores the innate human desire for validation and love, how wealth can exacerbate mental health issues, and the hypocrisy in societal attitudes towards the wealthy. Dr. Hokemeyer emphasizes the importance of culturally competent mental health services for all, regardless of socioeconomic status.00:00 Introduction to High Performers00:16 From Margins to Wealth: A Journey00:41 Behavioral Health and Power Dynamics02:05 The Isolation of Wealth02:42 Biological and Social Conditioning05:14 The Burden of Wealth07:01 Cultural Hypocrisy and Mental Health10:14 The Intensity and Scale of Problems____FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppAOr if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint—even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Me:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowlandFREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppASpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0r4v5xgyYz0rTFSLklk0Em?si=nf_cm0kWTUqt84nkqjC8bAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/watson-howland/id1813625992Instagram www.instagram.com/jacobwatsonhowland X/Twitter: https://x.com/jwatsonhowlandLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/watsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com

What did it really feel like to be SpaceX’s 4th engineer, betting your career on Elon Musk when reusable rockets still sounded like science fiction, and how does that same person end up training to fly with Blue Origin? Dr. Hans Koenigsmann, former VP of Build & Flight Reliability at SpaceX and now a Blue Origin astronaut candidate reveals the incredible history of modern space… from someone who helped design it. He joined SpaceX in 2002 as its fourth technical employee, led reliability and anomaly investigations through over 100 Falcon 9 launches, and played a critical role in the transition from “this will never work” to the first successful booster landings and re-flown rocketsYou’ll also learn how reusable rockets are rewriting launch economics, why small startups are pushing asteroid mining, private space stations, and microgravity pharmaceuticals, and Hans’s candid predictions for Mars, nuclear propulsion, and the future of human space exploration. If you’re interested in SpaceX, Blue Origin, Elon Musk, reusable rockets, asteroid mining, or the real story behind the new space race, this conversation is for you!00:00 Meeting Elon Musk: First Impressions01:26 Joining SpaceX: The Early Days05:21 Childhood and Early Career07:57 Building Satellites and Moving to the US10:36 SpaceX Hiring and Company Culture15:03 Developing Reusable Rockets18:17 The Impact of Reusable Rockets on the Industry26:41 Exciting Satellite Projects and Innovations35:11 Launching Rockets from the Pacific41:43 The Key to SpaceX's Success43:32 Decision-Making at SpaceX44:44 Tools and Resources at SpaceX46:19 The Importance of Speed47:07 Leading the Reliability Team50:13 Challenging Anomalies54:23 Leaving SpaceX57:36 Future of the Space Industry01:08:44 Philosophical Reflections01:17:25 HOW TO START YOUR OWN PODCAST WITH MY HELP!___FREE Podcast Tips (2nd Channel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUp5S7ZIZtjA8PMgXJMwppA Or if you want to start taking podcasting seriously: My full step-by-step podcast blueprint: https://www.skool.com/remote-pro-podcast-blueprint-8385 Launch your podcast using my successful blueprint, even on a budget and with zero experience, get my new episodes 24 hours early & join a tribe of like-minded outliers who will help you grow…____Hans Koenigsmann’s WorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-koenigsmann-2a141b5/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanskoenigsmann/?hl=enX: https://x.com/HansKoenigsmann____Team:Host: Jacob Watson-HowlandChief Editor: Chloé BreheretChief Automation Officer: Jack McDuff___Jacob’s stuff:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobjwatsonhowland Website: www.jacobwatsonhowland.com