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2.75M Q&A - Women’s Value, Loneliness & Bernie Sanders

12 Oct 2024 (1 month ago)
2.75M Q&A - Women’s Value, Loneliness & Bernie Sanders

New Studio (0s)

  • A 2.75 million subscriber Q&A episode is being recorded in a brand new studio (7s).
  • The studio features various decorative items, including a London telephone box, a London Bridge, see and hear and speak no evil statues, a thinking man statue, an Atlas statue holding up the world, and a little dinosaur skull (17s).
  • A secret Easter egg in the studio is a hand climbing up (37s).
  • The studio's color scheme, which includes teal and orange, is consistent with the brand's identity (43s).
  • The Director of Photography gave a present to commemorate the 2.75 million subscriber milestone (51s).
  • Questions for the Q&A episode were collected from Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube (53s).

Women’s Value to the World (1m2s)

  • The statement that women's value to the world lies in their beauty and youth was perceived as sexist and reductive, but it was intended as a historical assessment of how society has judged men and women, not as an optimal or desirable situation (1m7s).
  • Historically, men have been valued for their ability to provide status and resources, while women have had a premium placed on their age and looks, with entire industries dedicated to serving these cliches, such as cosmetic surgery and makeup (1m30s).
  • The same societal pressures that emphasize beauty and youth in women are now affecting men, with men on track to overtake women in rates of body dysmorphia within a few decades, highlighting a shift in how men are valued (2m21s).
  • The intention behind discussing these stereotypes was to identify and analyze them, not to justify or reinforce them, but rather to highlight the changing societal values and the impact on men's body image issues (2m44s).
  • The growing audience size has created a challenge in communicating complex ideas, as imprecise language and shorthand references may not be understood by new viewers, requiring a balance between providing context and avoiding repetition (3m3s).
  • The goal is to work on improving communication to avoid misunderstandings and to provide a clear understanding of the intended message (3m36s).

When Will We Get Merch? (3m49s)

  • A listener expressed appreciation for the content and inquired about the availability of merchandise, such as t-shirts, and offered to purchase them (3m55s).
  • The listener mentioned wearing a three-eyed skull t-shirt in some training vlogs and suggested creating merchandise with the "Modern Wisdom" logo (4m0s).
  • A limited number of "Modern Wisdom" t-shirts were created, approximately 20, but only for the creator and a few people behind the scenes (4m8s).
  • The creator is open to producing merchandise but acknowledges not being skilled at selling their own products and needs to find a way to do so without detracting from other tasks (4m18s).
  • The creator appreciates the listener's interest in the designs and finds them to be "pretty cool" (4m37s).

Start Saying ‘Y’all’ (4m42s)

  • The suggestion is made to start saying "Y'all" instead of "you all," which can be achieved by simply dropping the "I" from "you all" (4m45s).
  • A concern is raised that using "Y'all" might be perceived as cultural appropriation, especially since "Y" is sometimes used as a shorthand for a derogatory term in texting (4m56s).
  • The term "Y'all" was actually popular among the LGBTQ community due to its gender-neutral nature, providing an alternative to phrases like "you guys" (5m15s).
  • The idea of adopting "Y'all" is considered, but there's also a humorous concern about potentially being "canceled" by Texans for using the term (5m29s).
  • The decision to start using "Y'all" is left open, pending consideration and the agreement of the rest of Texas (5m40s).

Autoimmune Issues (5m45s)

  • A health issue has been affecting daily life, causing significant stress and anxiety, and impacting resilience, making this the hardest year so far (6m11s).
  • The health issues include disbiosis, parasites, mold, environmental toxins, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which are not uncommon in immigrants adapting to a new environment and food in America (6m36s).
  • Brain fog, mood swings, and low energy levels have been experienced due to these health issues, making it challenging to cope (6m58s).
  • Plans are underway to create a dedicated episode or series to discuss these health issues in more detail, potentially featuring specialists (6m25s).
  • The health issues have also led to increased speech errors, such as imprecision and forgetting names, which is unusual and concerning (7m29s).
  • Examples of speech errors include mistakenly referring to Ed Witten as Ed Dutton and struggling to recall familiar names and information (7m51s).
  • Despite initial hesitation, the decision has been made to be transparent about these health issues, hoping that sharing the experience might be helpful and useful to others (8m46s).

Massively Forearms (9m3s)

  • The topic of having large forearms has been coming up more frequently, possibly due to training vlogs being shared. (9m6s)
  • The individual attributes their large forearms to genetics, stating they have never done direct forearm training until recently. (9m18s)
  • The first instance of direct forearm training was done three weeks ago, during a podcast or training blog with Isrel. (9m29s)
  • A comparison is made to someone with large calves, suggesting that genetics play a significant role in muscle development, with the phrase "have good parents" being used to emphasize this point. (9m36s)
  • A humorous remark is made about the possibility of a tumor or mold causing brain fog and autoimmune problems, although this is not meant to be taken seriously. (9m49s)
  • The conversation is interrupted by a mention of "Z Griffith 23," but the context is unclear. (9m54s)

Relationship With Caffeine & Nicotine (9m56s)

  • A 500-day caffeine-free period was undertaken a couple of years ago, which proved to be significantly harder than a 1000-day period without alcohol that was completed the year before (9m57s).
  • The preferred method of consuming caffeine is to do it every other day, although this may not always be possible due to consecutive days of high demand or multiple nights of bad sleep (10m16s).
  • The best use case for caffeine consumption is to follow a rule of having it one day and not having it the next, which helps keep tolerance levels flat (10m31s).
  • It is believed that it takes 9 days of cold turkey from caffeine to fully reset the baseline adenosine system sensitivity, as stated by Mano Henselman (10m45s).
  • Nicotine is not currently being used, as stimulation from coffee and other sources is sufficient, making it unnecessary (11m5s).

Advice for Shorter Men (11m22s)

  • Advice for men under 6 feet in the current dating market is not considered necessary, as the key to success remains the same as it has always been (11m23s).
  • Being nice, attractive, well-presented, emotionally aware, and presenting some status are considered essential qualities for men to be successful in the dating market (12m10s).
  • The internet is believed to make a bigger issue out of height for men than it actually is in reality (11m41s).
  • Some women, particularly taller women, may have specific preferences when it comes to the height of their partner, such as a woman who is 6'2 and prefers not to date someone shorter than her (11m45s).
  • The example of a 6'2 woman is given, who may have a limited pool of potential partners, such as professional athletes, if she wants to wear heels at her wedding and not be taller than her partner (11m49s).
  • A mention is made of Alberto and his podcast, but the context is unclear (12m22s).

Investing So Much in Visuals (12m27s)

  • Investing in high-quality visuals is a personal preference, driven by a desire to create something beautiful and impressive, rather than solely for financial gain (12m28s).
  • The goal is to produce a body of work that can be looked back on with pride, and to push the limits of what is possible in terms of visual quality (13m20s).
  • The effort put into creating high-quality visuals has been criticized by some, who see it as "all style and no substance", but this criticism is not seen as a reason to change approach (13m30s).
  • In contrast to the current criticism, earlier episodes with no video or low-quality video were criticized for being lazy, highlighting that it is impossible to please everyone (13m40s).
  • Financially, investing in high-quality visuals is a significant expense, equivalent to a house deposit each time a big shoot is undertaken, and is the largest cost of the year (14m4s).
  • The cost of cinema shoots includes rental houses, insurance, and location fees, and is larger than the cost of staff and production fees (14m15s).
  • The intention is to create a space where people who appreciate beautiful things can enjoy the content, while also providing the option for those who are not interested in visuals to listen to the content on platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts (14m32s).

Daily Nutrition Plan (14m52s)

  • A daily nutrition plan consists of a fully carnivore diet, with a slight modification to include meat and fruit, often referred to as the "hipster's hipster carnivore" diet (15m11s).
  • This diet is influenced by individuals such as Jordan Peterson, Paul Saladino, and the Liver King (15m21s).
  • The diet is part of an autoimmune recovery plan, and its effectiveness will be reassessed in a couple of months (15m39s).
  • There is a reluctance to become an evangelist for this diet due to its potential to be seen as cliché (15m28s).

Will Chris Get Circumcised? (15m45s)

  • Adult circumcision is considered an extreme procedure to undergo without a valid reason (15m55s).
  • There is a perception that adult circumcision might be a trend, similar to past trends of getting body parts pierced, such as the top of the ears or nose rings (16m10s).
  • A personal acquaintance got circumcised as an adult as part of converting to Judaism before marrying a Jewish woman, which involved obtaining the father's permission (16m17s).
  • The individual expressing their thoughts on circumcision prefers to remain uncircumcised, referring to themselves as "team forkin" (16m39s).

Feeling Lonely (16m44s)

  • Experiencing loneliness is acknowledged, with a personal account of writing "I think I'm lonely" in a phone diary during a period of low mood in the 20s (17m6s).
  • Moving to America has improved the situation, which seems counterintuitive, but the feeling of loneliness still persists (17m11s).
  • The transition to "microniche degenerate Fame" with the show and detention has caused uncertainty about how to deal with the emotions that come with it (17m26s).
  • Feelings of shame and guilt arise from complaining about the situation, considering it a "Bourgeois luxury" (17m39s).
  • Recognizing the need to treat oneself with kindness and delicacy, rather than guilt or shame, is essential in addressing these emotions (17m47s).
  • Being an immigrant in a country that speaks the same language can lead to cultural displacement, which may not be immediately noticeable (18m21s).
  • The experience of being culturally displaced has been a significant aspect of the past year, with efforts being made to overcome the challenges that come with it (18m31s).

Balancing Left Vs Right Guests (18m38s)

  • The goal is to showcase the opposite perspective, with guests like Crystal Ball from Crystal and Saga, Anna Kasparian from The Young Turks, and potentially Bernie Sanders, to balance out the right-leaning views expressed by Ben Shapiro (18m40s).
  • The challenge in achieving this balance lies in finding a left-leaning equivalent to Ben Shapiro, as there isn't a direct counterpart (19m19s).
  • Efforts have been made to showcase the opposite perspective throughout the year, with guests like Brian Class, Nate Silver, Ryan Holiday, Scott Galloway, Destiny, and Democratic candidate Dean Phillips (19m21s).
  • Despite these efforts, it seems that people from the right carry more weight, making it difficult to rebalance the force (19m44s).
  • The 2024 election is viewed as a chaotic and dramatic event, with the candidates and the press contributing to a sentiment reminiscent of a meme universe or a South Park episode (19m55s).
  • The election makes for great TV, but it's also a relief to be in a safe location, such as Texas, and even better to be in Australia during the election (20m25s).

Chris’s Inner Monologue (20m43s)

  • Research suggests that 25 to 50% of people do not experience a constant inner monologue, meaning they do not hear a voice in their head narrating their thoughts, and instead process information in more visual, abstract, or sensory ways (21m2s).
  • The prevalence of people without an inner monologue depends on how the concept is defined and measured across different studies (21m18s).
  • Some individuals process information in alternative ways, such as visually or through sensory experiences, rather than through an internal narrative voice (21m12s).
  • The experience of not having an inner monologue is difficult to understand for those who do have one, as it is a fundamental aspect of their thought process (21m24s).
  • One of the biggest tasks for individuals with an inner monologue is to make the voice inside their head a friendly and positive presence (21m34s).

Favourite Music (21m52s)

  • The person's connection with music is rooted in their past as an "emo kid" throughout their teens, and they never lost interest in that genre. (22m9s)
  • They enjoy listening to various metal bands, including Architects, Bring Me The Horizon, Parkway Drive, Neck Deep, and Bayside, with Bayside's new album being particularly phenomenal. (22m10s)
  • Other notable bands they like include Misery Signals and Polaris, which they have recently gotten into and find outstanding. (22m20s)
  • Their music preferences also extend to deep house, which they often listen to while training, and country music, which they occasionally listen to while driving. (22m32s)
  • The person's musical tastes can be categorized into three main genres: metal, deep house, and country. (22m40s)
  • A good response to someone who uses the word "luck" to put down one's achievements is to say that the harder one works, the luckier they get, referencing a quote they have always loved. (22m54s)

Fear of Not Having Good Friends (23m7s)

  • The fear of not having people around when achieving success is a common problem that many individuals face, especially when they have sacrificed friendships to pursue their goals (23m10s).
  • This fear can be attributed to the idea that personal growth is like a rocket ship taking off, where individuals may leave others behind as they progress and reach new altitudes (24m3s).
  • As people grow and face new challenges, their language and communication style may change, making it difficult to relate to those who are at a different stage in their personal growth journey (24m28s).
  • The challenges faced by individuals at different stages of personal growth are fundamentally different, and it can be difficult to find people who understand and resonate with these challenges (24m54s).
  • It's essential to acknowledge that leaving behind old friendships and relationships is a natural part of personal growth, and it's a price to pay for growing quickly (25m34s).
  • Having tunnel vision on goals can make it difficult to see that there are people ahead who can be settled with at their altitude, and it's essential to have faith that like-minded individuals will be found in the future (25m40s).
  • It's not uncommon for individuals to feel like they're alone in their journey, but it's essential to remember that others have gone through similar experiences and will be able to resonate with them when they find each other (26m9s).

Overcoming Bullying (26m19s)

  • The concept of becoming confident is considered a misnomer, and a more accurate description would be becoming competent in certain areas, as self-doubt and uncertainty can still be present despite achieving success (26m20s).
  • Childhood was a challenging time, especially during the teenage years, with experiences of being a social outcast and facing non-physical bullying, but the ability to "bounce through things" helped to cope with the difficulties (27m24s).
  • The effects of bullying were not fully realized until retrospect, and it took time to understand the severity of the situation (27m52s).
  • Overcoming the emotional impact of bullying took around 5 years, and it involved achieving personal goals and realizing that the motivation to prove others wrong was toxic and gave power to those who had caused harm (28m2s).
  • The process of overcoming bullying involved recognizing that holding onto past hurts and using them as motivation can prevent inner peace and personal growth (28m24s).
  • Childhood experiences, including playing sports and spending time in solitude, contributed to personal growth, and although it was a challenging time, it was possible to come out of it "in one piece" (28m46s).
  • In adult life, some people may need to "put themselves back together" after a difficult childhood, and this process is ongoing, but it is possible to continue moving forward despite challenges (29m7s).

Inferiority Complex Disguised as Success (29m20s)

  • Realizing that striving for success is only a compensatory mechanism for past trauma or an inferiority complex can be a somber and melancholic experience, especially during reflective periods like Christmas or Autumn (29m24s).
  • Many people try to prove their value to the world by becoming sufficiently impressive, creating a "Grand Cathedral of accomplishments" to gain love and validation, which is often rooted in an inferiority complex (30m10s).
  • This phenomenon is common among high performers and successful individuals, who may have unadmirable internal mental states despite their external accomplishments (30m42s).
  • If one realizes their striving for success is a compensatory mechanism, they have seen through the first illusion and can choose to continue playing the game or assess why this motivation exists (31m14s).
  • To address this issue, one can do internal work, such as speaking to a CBT person, therapy, hypnosis, or journaling, to understand why they need to be successful to feel loved and sufficient (31m30s).
  • It's essential to question and challenge these beliefs, exploring why one feels the need to offer the world something to be loved back and whether this is true (31m52s).
  • Reflecting on relationships and why one chooses to be around certain people can help, as it's often not their success or striving that makes them enjoyable, but rather their kindness, humor, and other positive qualities (32m3s).
  • Ultimately, one should look inside and work out why they think success is necessary, what they're compensating for, and what their inferiority complex is, to decide whether they want to continue striving for success out of compulsion or choice (32m50s).

The Future of Britain (33m21s)

  • The UK's future for younger generations growing up is uncertain, and it's challenging to make a positive impact due to the country's culture and the "tall poppy syndrome," which involves cutting down and mocking individuals who try to stand out (35m4s).
  • The UK had the second-highest number of millionaires leaving the country in 2024, with around 10,000 individuals, which is a significant proportion compared to China, the country with the highest number of millionaire leavers (35m28s).
  • China's population is much larger than the UK's, with the UK being only 3% of China's population, yet it accounts for 66% of the number of millionaire leavers, which is a concerning statistic (35m35s).
  • The suggestion for someone who wants to leave the UK for a better life is to actually leave, as there may be limited opportunities for growth and positive change within the country (34m5s).
  • The UK's culture makes it difficult for individuals to find like-minded people who are positive, have agency, and are interested in making change, making it a rarity to find such individuals (34m46s).
  • Despite the challenges, it's possible for individuals to grow and make a positive impact in the UK, but it's impressive and rare, similar to lifting a weight on Jupiter (34m57s).
  • The UK's "tall poppy syndrome" and negative culture can be a significant drag on individuals who try to make a positive change, making it harder for them to break out from the mold (35m8s).

Out-of-Reach Guests (36m2s)

Experience With Tinnitus (37m30s)

  • Tinnitus is a condition that involves a permanent loud ringing in the ears, which is especially noticeable in low-volume environments (38m25s).
  • The brain creates this noise when it cannot detect certain frequencies, trying to fill in the gaps, similar to how the optical blind spot is filled in through post-processing (38m44s).
  • The condition can be triggered by inflammation and an unhappy brain, and it is often compared to chronic pain as it is a constant reminder of its presence (39m10s).
  • A feedback loop can occur where thinking about the tinnitus makes it louder, causing stress, which in turn increases cortisol levels and makes the tinnitus even louder (39m34s).
  • The experience of living with tinnitus can be challenging, especially when trying to sleep in a quiet environment, and it can be frustrating to deal with the constant noise (39m1s).
  • The condition can make a person feel like they are not on top of their game, and it can be difficult to talk about while still going through the experience (38m11s).
  • The recovery process from tinnitus can be slow and tough, and it may take time to find ways to manage the condition (38m1s).

Being Friends With Alex Hormozi (40m3s)

  • Being friends with Alex Hormozi is a cool experience, but due to both parties being busy, their interactions are often limited to exchanging memes and messages through speed messaging, with periods of not speaking to each other for a month or more (40m4s).
  • Despite the infrequent communication, Alex Hormozi is considered a good influence and a good counterbalance to negative feelings, but only in the right doses (40m28s).
  • The friendship with Alex Hormozi involves periods of frequent communication, but the frequency can be irregular (40m26s).

Work-Life Balance (40m42s)

  • The concept of work-life balance is about finding a way to not live life solely in service of work, and instead, hedging one's identity across multiple pursuits and interests (41m1s).
  • Many people do things they consider relaxing only because they think it will allow them to work harder afterwards, but this approach may not be the best way to live (41m15s).
  • Having multiple identities and interests outside of work, such as being a friend, family member, or hobbyist, can contribute to a better work-life balance (41m34s).
  • The true definition of work-life balance is having enough life outside of work that one doesn't need to worry about achieving balance (41m50s).
  • In ancient Greek, the word for work was defined as "not at leisure," implying that work was seen as an aberration and leisure was the norm (41m59s).
  • In contrast, modern society seems to have flipped this concept, prioritizing work over leisure and making work-life balance a concern (42m9s).
  • Ultimately, achieving work-life balance means having enough life outside of work to not have to worry about balance (42m20s).

Life Hack for Body Language (42m26s)

  • A life hack for body language is being discussed, but it's mentioned that there may not be a hack, and body language might not be as significant as people think (42m27s).
  • The person has a habit of standing very still, which they attribute to spending 10,000 hours in their 20s standing at the front door of a nightclub, where they would often stand still with their hands in one of three or four positions (42m43s).
  • These positions include hands in front, hands behind, hands on hips, or hands in pockets, allowing them to stand still for hours (42m55s).
  • The concept of mirroring and maintaining a masculine frame is mentioned, but it's expressed that these techniques may not be as effective or important as people think (43m17s).
  • Instead, simple actions like sitting upright, looking around, and being awake are suggested as a good starting point for positive body language (43m27s).

Advice to Younger Chris (43m35s)

  • If given the chance, the advice to be given to a younger version of oneself would be to be fearless, as a significant portion of life is driven by fear, worry, anxiety, and vigilance about things going wrong or past mistakes (43m35s).
  • This fearlessness would be a good starting point, and it's interesting to note that the answer to this question often reveals the most important thing that needs to be told to the current version of oneself (44m19s).
  • The thing that one wishes they could tell their younger self is almost always the single most important thing that needs to be applied to their current life, and people rarely sanitize themselves from the issue that this advice would have fixed (44m38s).
  • Reflecting on what one would tell themselves 10 years ago and applying it to their life right now can be a valuable exercise (44m57s).

Saying ‘Downstream’ All the Time (45m7s)

  • It is questioned whether it is possible to get through a podcast without saying "Downstream", and it is acknowledged that this challenge can no longer be attempted due to the mention of the word. (45m9s)
  • There is uncertainty about whether the word "Downstream" has been said previously in the podcast, but the mention of it now makes it impossible to use as an example of not saying it. (45m13s)
  • The frequency of saying "Downstream" is questioned, and there is concern that it might be said too often, potentially every other sentence. (45m21s)
  • A challenge is proposed to try not saying "Downstream" at some point soon, but the current conversation has made it difficult to achieve this goal. (45m30s)
  • CJ Wolf is mentioned as someone who might be involved in this challenge, but the current conversation has thrown a curveball by making the word "Downstream" be said. (45m34s)

Missing the Nightlife Scene (45m48s)

  • There is a sense of nostalgia for the nightlife scene, with fond memories of working with a team and building something together (45m48s).
  • The team consisted of 10 to 20 tight-knit managers and 200 to 300 staff members every year, creating a sense of camaraderie that is missed (46m3s).
  • Working with a business partner, Darren, is also missed, as he is described as a phenomenal and shrewd business person who could thrive in any industry (46m21s).
  • Darren's ability to adapt and lead is likened to being able to "throw him to the wolves and he'll come back the leader of the pack" (46m33s).
  • While the experience of working in the nightlife scene was enjoyable, the late nights, drunk people, and loud music are not missed (46m43s).
  • There is admiration for club promoters who are able to continue working in the industry into their late 30s (46m52s).

Is Chris Redpilled? (47m1s)

  • The question of how many steps removed from the Red Pill is posed, but the answer is unclear (47m1s).
  • The Red Pill community and the manosphere do not accept or identify with a particular individual, who has never claimed to be part of these groups (47m9s).
  • This individual is seen as a misogynist by some people on the left, particularly those who identify with fourth-wave feminism, and as a "cuck" by people on the right or those who are red-pilled in the manosphere (47m30s).
  • As a result, this individual feels ideologically criticized and rejected by both sides (47m38s).
  • The individual does not identify as red-pilled, except in the sense of understanding evolutionary psychology and mating dynamics (47m48s).

VIP for Riverside (47m59s)

  • Riverside was a significant event that was run for half a decade, with around a quarter of a million entries through that venue (48m10s).
  • The event was held on a Saturday, and the VIP section was managed along with the rest of the event (48m21s).
  • There is an invitation for people to attend the event on Saturday, if it is still open (48m29s).

Challenging Your Guests (48m32s)

  • Challenging guests is a skill set that is being developed and worked on, with efforts made to push back against ideas and sit with discomfort, as seen in episodes with guests such as Nate Silva, Ben Shapiro, and a therapist, Abigail Shrier (48m34s).
  • One notable instance of challenging a guest was in the episode with Will Tennyson, where he shared an emotional story and the host resisted the urge to interrupt and instead allowed him to express himself (49m1s).
  • The host has a compulsion to take responsibility for other people's emotional states, which can be seen as people-pleasing, but is working on sitting with discomfort and giving guests space to express themselves (49m16s).
  • The host learned the importance of sitting with discomfort from an episode of Theovon featuring Shan Strickland, where Theovon gave Strickland space to share his emotions and then responded with empathy (49m37s).
  • The host acknowledges that there is always room for improvement in challenging guests and pushing back against ideas, and is actively working on developing this skill (49m56s).

Toughest Guest (50m6s)

  • The conversation with Mr. Dawkins was a great interview, but it felt like begging the question a little bit (50m7s).
  • Richard Dawkins was not an easy guest to interview for several reasons: he is 80 years old, disagreeable, and they had already had a similar conversation the night before (50m16s).
  • The interview was challenging because it was done in front of 1200 Richard Dawkins fans, and then 16 hours later, they had to come up with new topics to discuss without repeating old information (50m31s).
  • The experience was a bit of a battle, and the challenge was to find new things to talk about without going over the same topics again (50m50s).

Next Episode With Alex Hormozi (50m58s)

  • Alex Hormozi has been a guest on the show multiple times, with two appearances this year and two appearances last year, and is currently taking a break (50m58s).
  • It is expected that Alex Hormozi will return as a guest at some point, likely in the first half of next year (51m8s).
  • The question was asked if there was a backup plan in place for the next episode, or if it was dependent on Alex Hormozi's availability (51m15s).
  • The question also inquired if the plan for the next episode was "all or nothing" in terms of Alex Hormozi's participation (51m21s).

Backup Plan for the Podcast (51m22s)

  • The podcast started in stages while other projects were still ongoing, including running an events company called Voodoo, modeling, and managing properties in the UK (51m22s).
  • The decision to move to America was a significant risk, but the goal was to pursue happiness, despite being generally risk-averse (51m50s).
  • The move to America was an all-or-nothing decision, and there was no turning back after exiting the last company, Voodoo (52m48s).
  • The podcast's success is crucial, as there is no financial safety net or escape velocity, and failure would require returning to the UK (52m27s).
  • The need to work every day to maintain the podcast's success is acknowledged, and the uncertainty of what would happen if it fails is expressed (52m37s).
  • The possibility of returning to the UK with a failed venture is a concern, and the hope is that the podcast will continue to be successful (52m40s).

Chris’s Experience With Therapy (53m7s)

  • The individual has been in therapy for approximately nine months, attending sessions twice a week, but has recently taken a break due to needing more time to focus on their health recovery, which involves various activities such as IVs, sauna sessions, and charcoal tablets. (53m45s)
  • They had to sacrifice therapy due to the time commitment, which took up 4 hours a week, including travel time, and conflicted with their daily schedule. (54m27s)
  • Despite stopping therapy, they found it to be a valuable experience, learning more about themselves in 9 months than in 5 years of meditation, particularly in terms of self-knowledge and self-understanding. (54m40s)
  • The therapy experience was likened to inviting someone into their "house" and discovering new "rooms" and connections they were previously unaware of, leading to a new perspective and understanding of themselves. (55m1s)
  • However, they caution that therapy can be rough and not easy, as it requires confronting and dealing with aspects of oneself that were previously hidden or ignored, and there is no way to hide or smooth things over. (55m39s)
  • The individual advises that therapy should be used with caution, but can be a valuable tool for self-discovery and growth. (56m11s)

Favourite Books This Year (56m14s)

  • The favorite books read this year include "Meditations for Mortals" by Oliver Burkeman, which is highly recommended and consists of 28 small chapters to be read once a day for four weeks (56m24s).
  • Another favorite is "Seveneves", an outstanding sci-fi book that has been re-read (56m47s).
  • "The Housemaid" by Alex Michel is also mentioned as a good read (57m1s).
  • "The Silent Patient" is another book that was enjoyed, particularly for its good twist at the end (57m6s).
  • "Verity" by Colleen Hoover was started but not finished due to its numerous sex scenes (57m13s).
  • "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt is a book that was enjoyed and found to be good (57m23s).
  • "Spiritual Enlightenment: The Damnedest Thing" by Jed McKenna is a favorite, offering a unique and objective look at enlightenment and spirituality (57m27s).

Favourite Bodybuilders (58m3s)

  • Ronnie Coleman is considered an absolute legend, but it's sad to see him now, as he has to gently walk himself from one exercise to another due to his physical condition, although he still seems very positive (58m12s).
  • Dorian Yates is also mentioned as a legend in the bodybuilding world, although he was a bit before the current time (58m39s).
  • It would be interesting to see where some of the old Animal athletes are now, such as Branch Warren, who reportedly fell off a horse and hurt himself (58m48s).
  • Branch Warren would be awesome to speak to, and it would also be cool to speak to Ben Pakulski, who has reached out and has pivoted his career in a different direction, possibly into spirituality or business (59m0s).
  • Other notable bodybuilders mentioned include a "techie 8036 Legend", but the name is not clearly stated (59m15s).

How Chris Increased His Testosterone (59m19s)

  • To increase testosterone levels, it's essential to understand what's happening inside the body, which can be achieved by getting blood tests done through companies like Marik Health or Function, as simply trying to increase testosterone without knowing the current levels can be ineffective (59m38s).
  • Blood tests can help identify issues with hormones such as FSH, LH, and sex hormone binding globulin, allowing for a more precise approach to addressing the problem rather than using a one-size-fits-all solution (59m55s).
  • Consistent training can help maintain good physical condition, but chronic inflammation and autoimmune issues can negatively impact testosterone levels, as cortisol and testosterone do not work well together (1h0m25s).
  • This year has been challenging due to chronic inflammation and autoimmune issues, making it difficult to maintain testosterone levels, but training has helped to some extent (1h0m28s).
  • It's crucial to address the underlying issues rather than just trying to increase testosterone levels, as this approach can provide more reliable and long-term results (1h0m8s).

Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy (1h0m57s)

  • A 51-year-old mother of three, aged 16 to 23, has learned valuable lessons from a podcast that has helped her in her parenting journey, despite the podcast not being focused on parenting (1h1m2s).
  • The mother is considering getting a golden retriever puppy, as she believes it would help alleviate her stress and difficulties, but acknowledges that taking care of a puppy might be a big responsibility given her current situation (1h1m23s).
  • In the meantime, she gets to spend time with a dog named Monroe, who is a new addition to the household, and this experience is helping her gradually work towards the possibility of having her own dog (1h1m44s).
  • The mother jokingly refers to her future dog as "Bradicus" (1h2m1s).

What If I Never Achieve More? (1h2m4s)

  • When experiencing self-doubt and a nagging sense of "what if this is it for me," it's essential to expand one's time horizon and focus on progress made over months and years rather than days and weeks (1h2m59s).
  • Comparing oneself to others, especially highly introspective and successful individuals, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and falling short, as one is comparing themselves to an ideal (1h3m20s).
  • Expanding one's time horizon allows for a more accurate assessment of progress, revealing consistent growth and improvement over time (1h4m0s).
  • The fear that things might not get better can be alleviated by continuing to work towards self-improvement, as stopping efforts guarantees stagnation (1h4m28s).
  • Paying attention to one's progress and expanding their time horizon can help individuals realize how far they've come and appreciate their growth (1h4m55s).
  • It's essential to be less hard on oneself and not fear that desired outcomes won't materialize, as people often end up getting what they deserve over time (1h5m49s).
  • The outcomes one is supposed to get in life are often the ones they will receive, and it's crucial to trust in this process (1h5m54s).

Underachieving Episodes (1h6m12s)

  • Some episodes underachieved in viewership compared to the value they provided, while others did really well despite not being considered the best work (1h6m15s).
  • The performance of an episode and its viewership are not directly related, as great episodes often don't get many plays, and what drives viewership is not the same as what makes an episode great (1h6m35s).
  • The episode with Tulsi Gabbard, for example, received 6-7 million plays and destroyed the internet, which was a surprise, but in retrospect, it shouldn't have been (1h6m47s).
  • On the other hand, the episode with Oliver Burkeman, which is considered one of the top 10 episodes of the year, did really well and provided all the value expected, despite not being expected to have huge viewership (1h7m5s).
  • The Oliver Burkeman episode is an example of an episode that provided value and was appreciated, and it's wished that it could be gifted to every listener (1h7m34s).
  • Another episode that did unexpectedly well was the one with Eric, which went to the moon and helped sell out the new merch design (1h7m46s).

Merch Designs (1h7m56s)

  • There is a need to create merchandise, as it has been requested by people for a long time, specifically since reaching 2.75 million subscribers (1h8m3s).
  • The task of creating merchandise has been put off for a while, but it is probably time to stop delaying and start working on it (1h8m8s).
  • A suggestion from Barber 83 is mentioned, but the specific suggestion is not provided in this segment (1h8m15s).

100 Books List Update (1h8m16s)

  • A list of 100 books that one must read is in need of an update, but the core value of the original list remains unchanged (1h8m19s).
  • The original list still holds relevance, and even if an update were to be made, only around 30 to 50 books would be swapped out (1h8m40s).
  • Certain books, such as "The Almanac" and "Nal Rant's Sensualism" by Greg McHugh, would remain on the list as they are considered essential reads (1h8m45s).
  • Other books, like "Red Rising", would also retain their place on the list due to their significance (1h8m49s).
  • The decision to update the list would depend on whether more than 30% of the original content is disagreed with, and if improvements can be made (1h9m0s).

Advice for a Lonely, Young Man (1h9m6s)

  • A message of comfort and solace is offered to a young man who is experiencing loneliness, acknowledging that it can be a difficult and isolating experience, especially when it feels like nobody nearby shares the same interests (1h9m9s).
  • The feeling of isolation can be exacerbated by knowing that there are people elsewhere who share similar interests, making the loneliness feel more personal and fault-driven (1h10m5s).
  • The importance of finding a community or "tribe" of like-minded individuals is emphasized, with reassurance that such people do exist and are worth finding (1h10m27s).
  • The experience of feeling isolated due to a lack of shared interests is relatable, as it is recalled that listening to figures like Peterson or Sam Harris in 2016 could make one feel like they were the only person in their area with those interests (1h9m46s).
  • The value of online communities and virtual connections is acknowledged, providing a sense of comfort and companionship for those who feel isolated (1h9m35s).

Dealing With the Lonely Chapter (1h10m40s)

  • Dealing with the "lonely chapter" and loneliness while pursuing goals is a common challenge, especially for young individuals who may have outgrown their old friendships and struggle to find new, meaningful relationships (1h10m43s).
  • Many people experience a sense of guilt about leaving their old friends behind as they pursue their goals and personal growth (1h11m11s).
  • Finding meaningful friendships and relationships can be difficult at a young age, and it's not a personal curse, but rather a common challenge that many people face (1h11m27s).
  • It often takes people a long time to start caring about the meaning they put into their friendships, and many young people's friendships may be transactional or based on convenience (1h11m40s).
  • It's essential to take it as a compliment that you're young and have progressed quickly, and to recognize that dealing with loneliness is an accepted problem that many mindful and introspective people face (1h12m6s).
  • Many people are dealing with the same challenge, and it's not just a personal issue, but rather a common experience that many individuals go through as they pursue their goals and personal growth (1h12m49s).
  • Everyone who wants to achieve their goals and grow as a person has to go through this challenging phase, and it's essential to go through it and not be discouraged by the loneliness (1h13m0s).

Number 1 Productivity Tip (1h13m9s)

  • The number one productivity tip is based on the concept that repeated recall, not repeated exposure, is the key to learning and memory, with the idea being that recalling information multiple times is more effective than simply re-reading it multiple times (1h13m31s).
  • This concept can be applied by trying to recall information from memory rather than simply re-reading it, as recalling information from memory strengthens it and makes it easier to remember in the future (1h13m49s).
  • Breaking down procrastination into smaller steps can help overcome it, with the first step being to define what needs to be done next and the second step being to determine how to do it (1h14m3s).
  • The science of procrastination suggests that most of the time, people procrastinate because they either do not know what they are supposed to do or do not know how to do it, and overcoming these two obstacles can help to reduce procrastination (1h14m16s).
  • By defining the next step and determining how to do it, individuals can typically overcome procrastination and become more productive (1h14m29s).

How Chris Got Into Metal Music (1h14m37s)

Chris as a Teenager (1h16m10s)

  • As a teenager, Chris was perceived as uncool, socially inept, and not charming, lacking an understanding of how the world worked (1h16m10s).
  • Chris wishes there were videos of him as a kid to show the difference between then and now, but unfortunately, such videos do not exist due to the time period (1h16m32s).
  • Chris spent a lot of time alone as a teenager and read books, including the Red Rising series by Kin Sanchez (1h17m6s).

Recommended Fiction Books (1h17m9s)

  • Recommended fiction books include the Kingkiller Chronicle trilogy and the Red Rising series, which were also recommended by Tim Ferriss and found to be great recommendations (1h17m12s).
  • The book "Seveneves" by Neal Stephenson is highly recommended, having been read at least three times (1h17m18s).
  • "The Highlander" by Alistair Art is also a great read, but it's a non-fiction book (1h17m24s).
  • Currently being read is "Lexicon", and earlier in the year, a "chick novel phase" was gone through when feeling sad (1h17m30s).
  • Other books that have been read include "Utopia" and "The Narrow Road Between Desires" by Patrick Rothfuss (1h17m45s).
  • Some books have not been enjoyed as much, with a few misses in non-fiction reads this year (1h18m8s).

Talking About Things You Aren’t Well-Versed in (1h18m13s)

  • Talking about things one is not well-versed in can be a concern, but it's possible to get away with it by acknowledging the lack of expertise and being open to ideas (1h18m17s).
  • The internet doesn't have a good forgiveness mechanism for people playing with ideas, and restricting only experts to speak on their areas of expertise can limit cross-domain learning (1h18m39s).
  • The concept of an "accuracy budget" suggests that if only experts are allowed to speak on their areas of expertise, it can lead to a situation where no one can play with ideas outside their domain of competence (1h18m48s).
  • Cross-domain learning is important, and trying to come up with new ideas by exploring different areas can be beneficial, even if it means going outside one's area of expertise (1h19m10s).
  • One way to overcome the fear of saying something wrong is to be around people who are forgiving of ideas and willing to consider different perspectives (1h20m26s).
  • Being open and transparent about the lack of expertise, such as using phrases like "I've got no idea what I'm talking about," can help to mitigate the risk of saying something wrong (1h20m17s).
  • Eric Weinstein's idea of an accuracy budget highlights the importance of allowing people to explore and play with ideas outside their area of expertise (1h18m48s).
  • The example of OIC use and evolutionary psychology perspective on why thin people might be critical of widespread OIC use illustrates the importance of being open to new ideas and perspectives (1h19m23s).

Ghosting Your Friends (1h20m39s)

  • Dealing with the guilt of ghosting friends and acquaintances can be challenging, especially when one has been trying to be more extroverted for a long time, but is now recovering from burnout and focusing on their business (1h20m40s).
  • It's not necessary to ghost friends, and instead, being truthful about one's situation can be helpful; a simple message stating that one is working hard on their business and dealing with burnout can suffice (1h21m7s).
  • Being an introvert who has managed to be more extroverted for a decade suggests that one has a lot of capacity, and taking time to recover is okay (1h21m22s).
  • Telling friends that one needs a little bit of space and time to recover can be a good way to handle the situation, and most people will likely be understanding (1h21m41s).
  • Ignoring texts or not replying to messages can be a result of feeling embarrassed or not wanting to see people due to health issues or burnout, but being honest with friends can help (1h22m19s).
  • It's okay to prioritize one's own needs and drop social engagements or friendships temporarily, and most people will be supportive and understanding (1h22m43s).
  • When reaching out to friends after a period of ghosting, a simple message apologizing for not being in touch and explaining one's situation can be enough, and friends will likely respond with support and understanding (1h22m57s).

Dealing With Loneliness in School (1h23m33s)

  • Dealing with loneliness in school was not recognized as a problem at the time, and it was only later that it became apparent that being alone was a common experience, whether in the room, schoolyard, lessons, or walking home (1h23m34s).
  • Playing sports was a way to deal with loneliness, as it forced being part of a team and provided an opportunity to be useful and wanted by others, even if not socially skilled (1h24m9s).
  • Being useful or competent in a sporting environment taught a lesson that has been carried into adulthood: the need to be useful or impressive to be loved or valued by the world (1h24m32s).
  • This need for validation is tied to striving for success and can be seen as a compensatory mechanism (1h24m41s).
  • Not recognizing loneliness as a problem in school made it easier to be robust as an adult, being used to being alone and not being fazed by new challenges, such as moving to a new country (1h25m6s).
  • Children are resilient, and despite difficulties in childhood, many people turn out fine, although this is not to say that neglect or poor parenting is optimal (1h25m30s).
  • Parents who are concerned about not being perfect or about their children going through difficult times should recognize that children are more resilient than they are often given credit for (1h25m56s).
  • Looking back at one's own childhood, it is clear that people dealt with difficult experiences and still turned out relatively unscathed, perhaps just a little fractured (1h26m5s).

How to Stay Grounded (1h26m23s)

  • Staying grounded despite newfound success is relatively easy due to not being around many people and not having a big ego, which is partly attributed to being self-critical and having low self-esteem or low confidence (1h26m26s).
  • This self-critical nature serves as a good proxy for humbleness, keeping one humble and preventing them from getting too full of themselves (1h26m59s).
  • A more challenging aspect is determining whether people want to be in one's life because they genuinely like them as a person or because they think there's status associated with being around them (1h27m17s).
  • The idea of having an "entourage" of people who are only around because of one's status is not appealing, and it's not believed to be the case, as the people one works with are still the same ones from before, including Mormon Ben, who has been an assistant for four years, and Dean, who has been around for six and a half years (1h27m44s).
  • The people one surrounds themselves with help keep their feet on the ground and don't believe in any hype, which is in line with the idea that "only the paranoid survive" (1h28m15s).

Finding a Woman With Similar Interests (1h28m20s)

  • Finding a woman with similar interests and depths to their consciousness can be challenging, and it's essential to have the courage of your standards in this area (1h28m21s).
  • Allowing yourself to not be distracted by physically attractive individuals is crucial, as there may be many instances where someone appears perfect but lacks common interests (1h29m13s).
  • It's essential to cut ties with individuals who don't share common interests, even if they are physically attractive, as they may not be the right match (1h29m45s).
  • Having high standards, such as requiring a PhD level or above, a specific BMI, or certain physical attributes, can be counterproductive and may lead to sacrificing more important qualities like similar interests and deep consciousness (1h30m23s).
  • When searching for someone with similar interests and deep consciousness, it's crucial to optimize for these qualities rather than physical attributes or other superficial characteristics (1h30m30s).
  • It's possible to come across someone who meets all the desired criteria, but it's essential not to get distracted by physical appearance when searching for someone with similar interests and deep consciousness (1h30m40s).

The Cost of Being Exceptional (1h30m50s)

  • The cost of being exceptional involves managing the pain of uncertainty and taking necessary actions to achieve goals without knowing if they will lead to positive outcomes, which is a common theme in entrepreneurship and self-improvement content (1h30m52s).
  • This uncertainty is a major part of the "Lonely Chapter" concept, which refers to the social and emotional challenges of pursuing one's goals and passions without clear proof of success (1h31m7s).
  • Many people resonate with the idea of the "Lonely Chapter," which may be a topic worth exploring further, as it highlights the difficulties of navigating uncertainty and self-doubt (1h31m25s).
  • Individuals who pursue personal growth and development often invest time and effort into learning new skills, watching videos, listening to podcasts, and taking online courses, but still face uncertainty about the effectiveness of these actions (1h31m42s).
  • The pain of uncertainty is a universal challenge that everyone who strives for success must face, as there is no guarantee of success or recognition, and it requires trying new things without promise of a positive outcome (1h32m1s).
  • This uncertainty is referred to as a "personal curse," as it is a unique and idiosyncratic challenge that each person must overcome in their own way (1h32m20s).
  • The process of overcoming uncertainty and achieving success is often mundane and daily, involving small, incremental actions rather than dramatic or heroic feats (1h32m57s).
  • The challenge of uncertainty is a fundamental aspect of personal growth and development, and it requires individuals to persevere and stay committed to their goals despite the lack of certainty or recognition (1h33m15s).
  • The pain of being exceptional is ultimately the pain of getting through this uncertainty and staying motivated and focused on one's goals despite the lack of clear proof of success (1h33m22s).

Worrying About Mould (1h33m31s)

  • Mold is a common issue in many houses, especially in subtropical temperatures, but it's not a problem for most people (1h33m55s).
  • However, individuals with a disposition for autoimmune problems or those who work hard and have a weakened immune system may need to be cautious about mold (1h34m13s).
  • Symptoms that may indicate a mold issue include persistent tiredness despite sufficient sleep, brain fog, and difficulty experiencing happiness (1h34m29s).
  • If experiencing these symptoms, it's recommended to get the house tested for mold and undergo an immune system test, such as an immune marker test (1h34m47s).
  • For people with mold sensitivity, it may be necessary to leave the house instead of trying to remediate the mold issue (1h35m7s).
  • Many people can coexist with mold in their house without any issues, but for those affected, it's crucial to take action to address the problem (1h35m0s).

Does Chris Relisten to Episodes? (1h35m15s)

  • The process of revisiting episodes to take a deeper dive into topics and concepts discussed involves going back over the interview, but this is not always done due to the need to prepare for upcoming episodes, with three episodes being recorded per week (1h35m35s).
  • Eric Weinstein is an example of a guest whose episodes are often revisited, as his conversations can be unpredictable and cover a wide range of topics, making it difficult to anticipate where the discussion will go (1h35m40s).
  • In contrast, guests like Oliver Burkeman, whose work is well-understood, do not require as much revisiting, as the conversation can be anticipated and enjoyed without needing to take notes or revisit the episode (1h35m50s).
  • Notes are not typically taken after an episode, but rather the episodes are revisited and enjoyed, as the show is designed to feature guests that are of personal interest (1h36m12s).
  • The show is created with the intention of featuring guests that are desirable to speak to, making the experience of listening to the episodes enjoyable, even after they have been recorded (1h36m25s).

Underlying Theme of Every Episode (1h36m37s)

  • The underlying theme behind every interview is understanding oneself, as this was the primary goal when starting the show, driven by a personal lack of self-understanding and a desire to learn from others who had a better grasp of themselves and the world. (1h36m38s)
  • A common mindset or advice found in most interviews is the idea of letting go of control, reducing fear, and not being overly concerned about life outcomes, while still working hard to achieve goals. (1h37m12s)
  • This mindset represents a paradox, as it balances the idea that one can work hard to achieve their goals with the understanding that outcomes may be beyond one's control, and that fear and anxiety about these outcomes are often unnecessary. (1h37m41s)
  • Exploring this paradox and the tension between working hard and letting go of control continues to be an interesting topic, as it offers new perspectives and ways to manage this distinction with each discussion. (1h38m2s)

Cinema Episode With Bernie Sanders (1h38m16s)

  • A potential future episode of Cinema could feature Bernie Sanders, who has had a notable episode on Joe Rogan's show that is still considered one of the best to date (1h38m18s).
  • Bernie Sanders is seen as a fascinating individual who has experienced various roles, including being a competitor, outcast, independent threat, and then returning to the fold (1h38m42s).
  • He is viewed as a disruptor on the left, similar to how Trump was on the right, and it would be interesting to know if he thinks he was sabotaged during his momentum in the past (1h39m14s).
  • There is curiosity about Bernie Sanders' thoughts on internal social politics within the Democratic Party, given his history of trying to challenge the status quo (1h38m57s).
  • Bernie Sanders is also seen as a great individual to learn from, especially in understanding the best aspects of the left, which are often overshadowed by criticisms and memes on the internet (1h39m35s).
  • There is a desire to learn about Bernie Sanders' views on immigration, a major talking point for the right, and how he thinks it relates to the struggles people are facing with the cost of living (1h40m20s).

Is Sobriety Still Difficult? (1h40m41s)

  • Sobriety is no longer a daily challenge, and temptations are rare, with no feelings of compulsion to have a beer (1h41m0s).
  • The process of overcoming addiction involved breaking the link between having a beer and having fun, which can be severed with persistence and dedication (1h42m27s).
  • Changing one's friend group or going into "monk mode" for a while may be necessary to achieve sobriety (1h42m19s).
  • The desire for a beer can be an intense, gravitational pull, but it is not the same as a dependency, especially if consumption is infrequent (1h42m4s).
  • Working at overcoming addiction can lead to a point where the desire for a beer is no longer present, and the individual can remember what it was like to have that desire without feeling it themselves (1h41m25s).
  • The experience of overcoming addiction involved a period of six months, three times, and then a thousand days, which ultimately led to a complete break from the desire for a beer (1h41m10s).
  • The memory of what it was like to have the desire for a beer remains, allowing for empathy with others who are struggling with addiction (1h41m25s).
  • The desire for a beer can be triggered by social situations, such as Friday afternoons with friends, but this desire can be overcome with persistence and dedication (1h41m43s).

Ending (1h42m45s)

  • The goal is to use the platform to teach people about health problems and hopefully help those who are dealing with similar issues or need to learn about them (1h42m46s).
  • The process of sharing and learning will be done in real-time, and it is acknowledged that there will be errors and a lack of transparency at times (1h43m11s).
  • Appreciation is expressed for the patience and support of the audience as the process unfolds, and it is acknowledged that there may be a need to correct and share previously undisclosed information, such as health issues (1h43m26s).
  • A milestone of 3 million is mentioned, and the conversation is brought to a close with a message of appreciation and a farewell (1h43m34s).

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