Lives Well Lived

In this final episode of the first season of Lives Well Lived, Peter & Kasia interview acclaimed author Joyce Carol Oates about her prolific career and perspectives on writing and life.Joyce Carol Oates was born during the Depression in Lockport, New York. Oates published her first book in 1963 as a teen, and has since published 58 novels, many of them portraying the darkness of American society. Her writing has earned her virtually every major American literary prize, and she has been a finalist for the Pulitzer for Fiction five times. Joyce, a longtime Princeton professor and writer, discusses the complexity of self-identity, and the nature of a well-lived life. She presents a unique view and challenges the core themes of this podcast, noting her focus on literary output over emotional introspection. Joyce expresses her belief in prioritising the work over personal fame and outlines her perspective on philosophical questions about the self.In the second half of this episode, Peter & Kasia reflect on the recurrent themes that have arisen from our guests over this first season. We thank for you listening, and hope you join us for Season Two when we are back later in the year. If you have guest suggestions pls leave us a review and who you would like to see on an upcoming episode of Lives Well Lived.Keep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettAudio Producer: Stuart BucklandThanks to our volunteer researchers Hendrik Dahlmeier and Mihika ChechiIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREON Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD, is among the top 0.1% most cited scientists in the world for her revolutionary research in psychology and neuroscience. She is a University Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University. She also holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is Chief Science Officer for the Center for Law, Brain & Behaviour. In addition to academic work, Barrett has written two science books for the public, How Emotions are Made and Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain.This episode begins with Lisa talking about how the brain's processes can help overcome anxiety related to public speaking, and how sensations interpreted as anxiety can be redefined as determination or arousal through cognitive reframing.Peter and Kasia explore the philosophical implications of neuroscience concepts such as free will and the self, the construction of social reality, and environmental influences on leading a meaningful life.Learn more about Lisa Feldman Barrett and read her books!Keep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett (sadly no relation to Lisa Feldman Barrett)Thanks to our volunteer researcher Hendrik Dahlmeier and Mihika ChechiIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREON Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Murali Doraiswamy is Professor of Psychiatry and Professor in Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine where he is a physician scientist at the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences.This conversation explores the complex definitions and criteria for diagnosing mental illness and its prevalence worldwide. Prof Doraiswamy discusses contributing factors such as economic instability, cultural differences, and the impact of social media on mental health. Peter & Kasia discuss the role of psychiatry and the integration of positive psychology in improving individual well-being, alongside the ethics and challenges of treating terminal illnesses and the quality of life in dementia patients. Prof Doraiswamy talks about blending Eastern and Western approaches to understanding happiness and mental health, and the evolving perspectives on happiness through different stages of life.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettAudio Producer: Stuart Buckland Thanks to our volunteer researcher Hendrik Dahlmeier and Mihika ChechiSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sam Harris is an American philosopher, neuroscientist, author, and host of Making Sense.Peter and Kasia are in-conversation with Sam on spirituality, consciousness, ethical living, and the fear of death. Sam begins by examining his profound ethical realisations under the effects of MDMA, leading to a pursuit of understanding consciousness via meditation and philosophy. The dialogue covers the contrasts between psychedelic experiences and meditation, the illusion of self, and the ethical implications of free will. Sam touches on modern ethical issues like lying, vegetarianism, and effective altruism. Ultimately this episode emphasises appreciating the present and making thoughtful philosophical adjustments to lead a fulfilling life.Learn more about Sam HarrisListen to Sam's Podcast MAKING SENSEIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettThanks to our volunteer researcher Hendrik DahlmeierSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Bloom is Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto, and Brooks and Suzanne Ragen Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Yale University. Paul Bloom studies how children and adults make sense of the world.Paul Bloom delves into the intricacies of morality, debates the importance of reason over emotion in making moral decisions, and argues for the power of reason to help distinguish between rational and irrational reactions. Along with Peter and Kasia, Paul explores the significance of pleasure, distinguishing between short-term pleasures and long-term happiness, and the psychological aspects underpinning our attachment to objects with historical value.Learn more about Paul BloomIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettThanks to our volunteer researchers!Mihika ChechiHendrik DahlmeierSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ximena Abogabir is a Chilean journalist, environmentalist, and social activist who co-founded the organisation Casa de la Paz (House of Peace) in 1983. Ximena is known for her work in sustainable development and environmental awareness in Chile, and has become a prominent figure in environmental activism, advocating for policies that address climate change and promote sustainability throughout the world.Ximena discusses the importance of living well into old age, and how society needs to reshape its cultural perceptions, and overcome stereotypes around ageing. These ideas are explored with Peter & Kasia through the concepts of finding purpose and maintaining robust health in life, so that longevity can be celebrated instead of feared.Learn more about Ximena! If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettThanks to our volunteer researchers!Mihika ChechiHendrik DahlmeierSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Haidt is a social psychologist and author of New York Times bestsellers 'The Righteous Mind', and 'The Coddling of the American Mind'. His latest book 'The Anxious Generation', argues that the rise of smartphones and overprotective parenting have led to a "rewiring" of childhood and a rise in mental illness.Jon discusses the intricate dynamics of political behaviour in America, highlighting the psychological differences, and intensified political extremes between liberals and conservatives as well as the societal shifts driven by technology and social media. Haidt discusses legislative accountability of the social media companies, and proposes social norms that are needed to overcome the mental health challenges of the younger generation.Learn more about Jonathan and read THE ANXIOUS GENERATIONIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettThanks to our volunteer researchers! Mihika ChechiHendrik DahlmeierSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A.J. Jacobs is an author, humourist and journalist, who has written four New York Times bestsellers, including 'The Year of Living Biblically' , 'The Know-It-All: One Man’s Humble Quest to Become the Smartest Person in the World, and 'Drop Dead Healthy'. Jacobs discusses his unique life as a 'human guinea pig,' exploring different ways of living through immersive year-long experiments such as living according to all biblical rules, striving for physical perfection, and living like America's Founding Fathers for his latest book, 'The Year of Living Constitutionally.'A.J. discusses his motivations behind these experiments, and recounts his experiences with radical honesty, health regimens, and biblical literalism.Learn more about A.J Jacobs and read his latest book The Year of Living ConstitutionallyIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthieu Ricard is a French-Nepalese author, photographer, and Buddhist monk who resides at a Monastery in Nepal.Matthieu received a PhD degree in molecular genetics in 1972. He then decided to forsake his scientific career and instead practice Tibetan Buddhism, living mainly in the Himalayas. Since 1989, he has acted as the French interpreter for the 14th Dalai Lama.Matthieu Ricard is often referred to as the "world's happiest man. In this episode Ricard shares with Peter & Kasia insights from his life as a Buddhist monk, including his rigorous meditation practices, his experiences with spiritual masters, and his thoughts on living a meaningful life through the interconnectedness of all beings. Ricard emphasises that true happiness stems from flourishing altruism and compassion, rather than the endless pursuit of personal pleasure.Learn more about Matthieu and read his latest book: Notebooks of a Wandering Monk If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Frances Kissling is a prominent advocate in the fields of religion, reproductive health and ethics. Kissling served as the president of Catholics for Choice for 25 years, where she worked to promote a progressive understanding of reproductive rights within the Catholic community, and has significantly contributed to discussions on abortion rights and women's health issues.In this episode Frances reflects on her life journey, discussing her Polish heritage, childhood experiences, and early influences that led her to join and subsequently leave a convent. She delves into her work as a pro-choice activist, and the complexities of balancing Catholic values with her advocacy for women's rights and reproductive freedom.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tyler Cowen is an American economist, columnist, and blogger, He was ranked at number 72 among the "Top 100 Global Thinkers" and he is here with Peter & Kasia to discuss wide ranging diverse topics!This episode delves into the speculation around the existence and visitation of aliens to Earth, and exploring the implications of such visits on human behaviour and society. AI's impact on future technology and economics, as well as climate change, deregulation, and animal welfare. Cowen shares his daily routine, emphasising the importance of output and productivity, his philosophy of life, including his views on utilitarianism, religion, and the importance of constantly seeking knowledge and making incremental improvements for a better world.Learn more about Tyler at Marginal Revolution If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dui Toledo is in conversation with Peter & Kasia to discuss his personal philosophy on living a good life, which includes balancing health, skill development, meaningful relationships, and service to others. Dui highlights his 105-hour rule to manage time efficiently, the importance of deliberate learning, and his perspectives on ethics, morality, and living a life well-lived.Learn more about DuiIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter & Kasia are in-conversation with Kate Grant, a leading figure in the fight against obstetric fistula. This episode explores Kate's transition from a successful advertising career to working in international development and eventually leading the Fistula Foundation as CEO. Kate explains what obstetric fistula is, its impact on women in low-resource settings, and the challenges in addressing it due to socioeconomic and gender inequalities. Kate talks about her personal motivations, and her critical perspective on global aid effectiveness and philanthropy. Kate emphasises the transformative power of fistula surgery and the importance of addressing structural inequalities to make a lasting impact on women's health.Learn more about Kate the Fistula Foundation!If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter & Kasia are joined by author and journalist Robert Wright. Robert Wright is the New York Times bestselling author of The Evolution of God (a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize), Nonzero, The Moral Animal, Three Scientists and their Gods, and Why Buddhism Is True. The discussion delves into the evolutionary explanations for altruism and sympathy, and how human sexual psychology impacts societal norms. The role of technology and non-zero-sum interactions in human history is explored, alongside the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Robert discusses moral realism, and the concept of being judged by a higher power.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane Goodall DBE is an ethologist and conservationist, the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, and a UN Messenger of Peace.Peter and Kasia have joined Jane in her family home to record this conversation. In this dialogue, Jane Goodall reflects on the powerful influence of her mother, her passion for animals that began in childhood, and her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees.Jane recounts her journey from a curious child to an eminent ethologist and activist, reshaping scientific views on animal behaviour and emotions. Goodall discusses the significance of animal welfare, the crisis of factory farming, and the importance of fostering hope through her Roots & Shoots program for young people.This conversation emphasises Jane's lifelong dedication to understanding and protecting animals, while inspiring future generations to make a positive impact on the world.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettAdditional Audio Producer (London): Giles Bidder for Darkside Media Special Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter & Kasia are joined by astrophysicist, author, and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson.They discuss Tyson's journey in becoming an astrophysicist and the public's fascination with space, and explore the impact of seeing the night sky and how it inspired Neil's life and career. The power of images like the Voyager 1 photo of Earth and the Pale Blue Dot photo in shaping the perspective of ourselves in the universe are considered. The conversation explores the limitations of human perception and the role of science in enhancing our understanding of reality.Appearance by Producer Rach who has a burning question for Neil and The Golden Record...If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil‘Come Sail Away’ performed by Styx, written by Dennis DeYoung Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Judy Collins is a singer-songwriter with a musical career spanning seven decades. Judy is known for the outstanding clarity and beauty of her voice. Judy is a Grammy Award winning artist, whose musical catalogue of work includes 36 studio albums.Judy joins Peter & Kasia to discuss her singing career, activism, and the importance of music and art. She reflects on the 1960s, the current political climate and the need for change. Collins shares her approach to performing and the impact it has on her audience, providing them with a space for reflection and inspiration. The importance of self-care & sobriety is discussed, along with Judy's experience with suicide, and the role that spirituality and love plays in her life.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettAudio Producer: Stuart BucklandIn My Life written by Paul McCartney & John Lennon, performed by Judy Collins"But of all these friends and loversThere is no one compares with you.And these memories lose their meaningWhen I think of love as something new.Tho' I know I'll never lose affectionFor people and things that went before,I know I'll often stop and think about them,In my life I love you more." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor. Yuval Noah Harari is a historian, philosopher, and the bestselling author of Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow, and the forthcoming NEXUS: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI. His books have sold over 45 Million copies in 65 languages, and he is considered one of the world’s most influential public intellectuals today.Peter and Kasia interviewed Yuval in person in London, this conversation covers; the the main victims of history throughout the ages, and what was arguably the worst crime in history.Yuval gave his views on the relative importance of love and intellect. Yuval also explains why writing a bestseller doesn't necessarily mean that one is living well.Keep up to date with Yuval and sapienshipLearn more about Rethink PrioritiesIf you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettAdditional Audio Producer (London): Giles Bidder for Darkside Media Special Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ingrid Newkirk is an author, activist, and president of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the world's largest animal rights organisation. PETA famously proclaims that animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, use for entertainment, or abuse in any way.In this episode Peter & Kasia speak to Ingrid and explore PETA's achievements, and the compromises Ingrid has had to make in order to reduce the vast universe of suffering that humans inflict on animals, and how if these ideals could be implemented throughout society, there could be revolutionary change.Ingrid's impact in the Animal Rights movement is unparalleled, and she is an incredible storyteller. We hope you will be inspired by this conversation.Please note there are discussions of animal suffering inherent within this episode, please take care whilst listening.Learn more about Ingrid and PETA!People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals: PETABOOK: Free the Animals WATCH: I Am An Animal If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Executive Producer: Rachel BarrettSpecial Thanks to Suzi Jamil! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Kasia & Peter as they explore the profound impact of Daniel Kahneman, the Israeli-American psychologist, and author who revolutionised our understanding of human decision-making. Awarded the 2002 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences, Kahneman’s groundbreaking work, alongside Amos Tversky, unveiled the cognitive biases and heuristics that shape our judgments. Kasia & Peter delve into his influential theories, including prospect theory, ask Daniel how he finds objective meaning, and discuss the importance of collaboration.This is Kahneman's last public interview before his death on March 27, 2024.If you are enjoying this podcast, consider supporting us over at PATREONKeep up to date with Peter!Website: www.petersinger.infoSubstack: https://boldreasoningwithpetersinger.substack.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@peter_singerKeep up to date with Kasia!https://www.facebook.com/katarzyna.delazariradek Special Thanks to Suzi Jamil!Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.