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The Random Show — 2025 Predictions (AI, Aliens, BTC, and More), New Year’s Resolutions, and More

06 Jan 2025 (16 days ago)
The Random Show — 2025 Predictions (AI, Aliens, BTC, and More), New Year’s Resolutions, and More

Alien tourism (0s)

  • Alien tourism is a possible explanation for some extraterrestrial activities, suggesting that some aliens may be visiting Earth for leisure purposes (0s).
  • The idea is compared to human tourists who engage in reckless behavior, such as getting drunk and crashing into animals during safaris in Africa (5s).
  • Similarly, some aliens may be coming to Earth, having a few drinks, and then getting into accidents, which can be likened to "Teenage alien DUIs" (14s).
  • The concept is further illustrated with a humorous example of an alien named Glo Glo going to Earth again, possibly after drinking, and getting into trouble (20s).
  • Other names mentioned in the context of alien tourism include Kev Kev and Tim Tim, although their roles or relationships to the concept are not explicitly stated (44s).

Aloha and happy holidays! (45s)

  • Happy holidays are being wished, and the current location is revealed to be Hawaii, a place with wonderful sun and warmth, but not great seasonal variety (1m1s).
  • The current state of being is described as feeling very chill and grounded, despite having many projects in process, which has been noticed by close friends (1m40s).
  • The reasons for feeling chill and grounded include sleeping well in Hawaii, where the air conditioning had to be overridden to achieve a cooler temperature (2m2s).
  • The discussion is about to begin, covering topics such as year-end specials, New Year's resolutions, and predictions for the upcoming year (2m27s).
  • The typical New Year's resolutions include drinking less, exercising more, and other recurring goals (2m44s).
  • Predictions for the upcoming year are to be shared, with a focus on having a good track record and a broad view of various sectors (3m6s).
  • The role as a general partner at True and an active investor provides a unique perspective on upcoming trends and patterns (3m12s).
  • The goal is to observe and discuss patterns and predictions, with the possibility of riffing off each other's ideas (3m37s).

Contemplating the societal impact of reality-bending AI. (3m40s)

  • Apple releases a yearly list of the best apps, and a recent winner was Adobe Lightroom, which has been around for decades, raising questions about what makes it new and notable this year (5m22s).
  • A promotional video for Adobe Lightroom showed kids playing in a backyard with the ability to erase objects, such as a yard door, and replace them with digital alternatives, like more hedges (5m38s).
  • This technology is concerning as it can alter real memories and replace them with almost imperceptible digital alternatives, potentially leading to gaslighting oneself in the future (6m27s).
  • The use of photo editing to erase people or objects is often done for sharing on social media, effectively applying digital plastic surgery to one's life to present a more curated version of reality (6m53s).
  • This type of editing can be problematic, as it can create unrealistic expectations and promote the idea that one's life should be perfect, similar to the negative effects of physical plastic surgery (7m15s).
  • There's a tendency to constantly add more and more to one's life, which can lead to delusional dissatisfaction with minor imperfections, such as a door in the hedges, and create a fake sense of perfection (7m19s).
  • The downstream effects of this tendency can lead to friends feeling envious of others' seemingly perfect lives, not realizing that they may have used editing tools to create that illusion (7m48s).
  • The use of AI to create perfect scenes can create unrealistic expectations and make people, especially children, feel like they need perfection in their lives (8m14s).
  • This can lead to a pendulum swing away from certain digital environments as people realize the negative impact of constant exposure to curated and manipulated content on their perception, satisfaction, and dopamine reward system (8m39s).
  • As a result, people may start seeking out offline activities and tangible things they can hold and know are real, such as running clubs, in-person events, and print books (9m38s).
  • There are already early indications of this trend, with the rise of running clubs and in-person activities in major cities, and potentially improving numbers in print book sales (10m1s).
  • People who are hyper-exposed to digital content, such as those in the tech industry, may be "canaries in the coal mine" and feel the need to step away from manufactured reality (10m55s).
  • This topic was discussed in the context of raising children, particularly daughters, and the importance of being mindful of the impact of digital content on their perception of reality (11m13s).
  • The concept of bullying is expected to evolve with the advancement of AI technology, where people can create fake but realistic videos to mock or humiliate others, making it difficult to distinguish reality from fabrication (11m17s).
  • This new form of bullying will be similar to traditional schoolyard slams, but with the added layer of AI-generated content that can be made to look real (11m25s).
  • The potential for AI misuse is significant, and it is crucial to be aware of how these technologies are being used and to consider the potential consequences (12m19s).
  • Despite the risks, AI tools like Chad GPT and Claud can be very useful when used responsibly, as demonstrated by their application in a company offsite in Maui (11m59s).
  • The key to avoiding the negative effects of AI is to be mindful of how it is being used and to recognize that the application and dosage of these technologies can make all the difference (12m17s).

Meathead vs. holistic fitness. (12m27s)

  • Personal New Year's resolutions include avoiding overindulgence in food and drink, particularly during the holiday season, and instead focusing on a healthier lifestyle, with a goal of being lean and having core strength, rather than trying to gain muscle mass like in the past (12m28s).
  • The idea is to transition from a "Meathead" approach to a more functional and sustainable way of exercising, incorporating movement and stretching to improve joint health, back health, and overall longevity (14m26s).
  • Inspiration has been taken from accounts such as Functional Patterns, which offers non-traditional approaches to movement and exercise, with a focus on setting oneself up for long-term health and wellness (14m35s).
  • Hugh Jackman's physique in the new Wolverine movie with Deadpool has also been a source of inspiration, with his dedication to following the basics and being a true athlete serving as a model for achieving a high level of fitness (15m13s).
  • The goal is to find a balance between movement, core strength, and leanness, rather than trying to achieve an unrealistic or unhealthy physique (15m9s).
  • There's a growing trend towards functional, holistic movement-based health, strength, and training that's non-traditional, and many people are making this move (16m11s).
  • Research was done on an account, likely Ina Inyang's, who has a video called "The Lie of Traditional Strength Training" that delivers on its promise despite being clickbait, with impressive production value and delivery (17m2s).
  • Ina Inyang is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitor who has won at a high level, including Masters Worlds at brown belt, and is now a black belt (17m28s).
  • Mark Bell, a well-known figure in the powerlifting community, confirmed that Ina Inyang is the real deal on every possible level (18m17s).
  • Ina Inyang's video discusses the concept of the "spinal engine," which suggests that the spine is the primary engine that makes us move, challenging the traditional belief that human gait is the exclusive function of the legs or the swinging of the arms and legs (18m31s).
  • A book titled "The Spinal Engine" by Serge Gracovetsky explores this concept in more depth, with a focus on the human spine, particularly the lumbar spine, and argues that the spine plays a crucial role in human movement (18m36s).
  • The book presents arguments and data that challenge the traditional belief about human gait and proposes that the spine is the primary engine that makes us move (19m22s).
  • Ina Inyang demonstrates the implications of this theory through video and uses tools like rope swings to show how to develop mobility through different planes of motion (19m32s).
  • Experimentation with some of the motions in Ina Inyang's video led to further exploration of the concept of the spinal engine and its role in human movement (20m5s).
  • The counterexample presented in the video highlights the limitations of traditional strength training, which often involves constant bracing and holding, and suggests that this approach may not be the most effective way to develop mobility and strength (20m11s).
  • The importance of increasing inter-abdominal pressure during weightlifting is discussed, specifically by breathing in certain portions of a lift to produce rigidity in the spine (20m19s).
  • The focus has always been on weight training in service of athleticism, rather than powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting, with a love for playing sports and competing (20m39s).
  • There are plans to compete in some form of sport in 2025, with the goal of having something on the calendar for that year (20m51s).
  • A cautionary note is given about not going from a state of being broken and stiff to doing exaggerated rotational movements or pulling a sled backwards in a compromised position, as this can lead to injury (21m7s).
  • The importance of micro progressions and progressive resistance is emphasized, with the need to be smart about it due to the accumulation of injuries and the longer healing time that comes with age (21m24s).
  • The experience of using a splitz machine to try to achieve the splits is shared, with a warning from a Plies instructor about the lack of supporting muscles and the risk of injury (21m44s).

My current fitness priorities. (22m20s)

  • The current fitness priorities include developing different types of stability and strength, such as single leg lifts, which can be tested and improved through skiing, a fun and diagnostic tool for identifying areas that need work (22m22s).
  • As people get older, they lose muscle mass due to age-related muscle loss, also known as sarcopenia, which is correlated with various health issues, including all-cause mortality, making weight training and resistance training a priority for functional health span (23m11s).
  • The focus is on compound movements, which can be done once or twice a week, as overdoing it is not necessary, and even one day a week can lead to progress, especially for those who are new to weight training (23m40s).
  • A simple and effective approach is using high-intensity training with one set to failure, recognizing that complexity can be the enemy of execution, and it's essential to scale down to what can be done, especially when starting an exercise habit (24m2s).
  • The goal is to make the bar low enough to clear it and avoid making excuses, such as going to the gym every day and doing 5 minutes on a treadmill, to establish a consistent exercise habit (24m30s).

The pros and cons of training to failure. (24m41s)

  • For those who want to achieve some muscle mass and tone without being a "meathead," the effectiveness of one set to failure versus multiple sets to failure is discussed, with the data suggesting that multiple sets to failure may be more effective for a single muscle group (24m41s).
  • Training to failure can inhibit the ability to train for sport-specific activities like skiing if overdone, as it can affect fine motor control (25m44s).
  • The individual does not have recent data on the comparison between one set to failure and multiple sets to failure, and is skeptical of existing studies due to potential biases and poor form (26m10s).
  • The individual participated in a weightlifting trial where they were required to do 10 reps of bench press for multiple sets, and observed varying levels of form and time under tension among participants (26m22s).
  • For novice or intermediate trainers, doing a single set to concentric failure per exercise can yield excellent results, with potential incremental gains from doing multiple sets, but at the cost of recovery ability (27m27s).
  • The individual clarifies that their recommendation of one set refers to a specific type of exercise and training protocol, which they intended to elaborate on (27m50s).
  • The author's books serve as reference books for themselves, containing best practices that have been tested and can be referred back to, such as the 4-Hour Body and the aam's protocol. (27m59s)
  • The author recommends a simple workout routine that includes a handful of compound movements, such as a seated row, pull down, and leg press, which can be done in under 20 minutes. (28m32s)
  • The author suggests doing one compound pulling movement, one compound pressing movement, and one or two leg movements per workout. (28m52s)
  • Warm-up sets are not necessary if you're tracking your progress, using the same equipment, and lifting at a slow cadence, as the first handful of reps can function as a warm-up. (29m4s)
  • The author recommends taking 30% of the target working weight and doing three to five reps to ensure joints aren't flared up and there's no pain before starting the actual workout. (29m18s)
  • The author suggests having an A workout and a B workout, with different exercises to avoid issues with shoulders, such as close grip bench press, close grip incline bench press, pull downs, and leg press or split squats. (29m35s)
  • The target reps for the workout should be 6 to 10 reps to failure, using a super slow protocol of 5 seconds up and 5 seconds down, and increasing the weight only when reaching an 8 to 10 rep range. (30m29s)
  • The author emphasizes the importance of logging the entire workout, including notes, to make progress and track results. (31m30s)
  • A second workout is suggested, focusing on compound movements done to failure for progress, as long as it's safe and the individual's shoulders are healthy enough (31m37s).
  • The workout could include an overhead press or a military press, with the option of using free weights or machines, prioritizing safety and consistency (31m47s).
  • For those who travel frequently, hiring a personal trainer or powerlifter with good technique is recommended to coach on using free weights, which are more uniform across different locations (32m1s).
  • The workout routine could include a seated overhead press, a seated row, or a bent row with a barbell, in addition to the previously mentioned pull-down exercise (32m19s).
  • For leg exercises, alternatives to split squats with dumbbells could be leg press, which is another compound movement (32m30s).

Back pain causes and stem cell relief. (32m37s)

  • The individual has a 1.1 cm difference in leg length, with the right leg being longer, which was confirmed by full leg X-rays done a year ago, and this discrepancy can cause rotational force when doing exercises like back squats, leading to back pain (32m37s).
  • The individual has been experiencing acute back pain for two years but has made progress and is experimenting with stem cells, which have shown positive early results, particularly with an injection in the SI joint and bathing the iliolumbar ligament with stem cells (33m19s).
  • The individual chose not to inject anything intradiscally due to the long-term risk of disc issues and instead opted for the unorthodox method of injecting stem cells into the SI joint and bathing the iliolumbar ligament (33m44s).
  • The iliolumbar ligament is a lesser-known area that can contribute to back pain, and the individual believes that the health and inflammation of these ligaments are often overlooked in diagnosing back pain (34m18s).
  • The individual is interested in exploring friction massage as a potential method for relieving back pain, which involves using tools like a goua tool to target specific areas (36m30s).
  • A treatment method similar to cupping, involving rapid pressure movement to break up fascia, has been considered for relief from low back pain, and using a gacha tool or manual therapy may be effective, with some people experiencing incredible relief from this method (36m37s).
  • Addressing ligaments has been found to alleviate low back pain, and a noticeable contrast has been observed between the treated and untreated sides of the body (36m55s).
  • A clinical trial for stem cells is being participated in, which requires a six-month break between treatments, and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy may be considered for the untreated side (37m14s).
  • A "vampire facial" may be done in conjunction with PRP therapy, as part of a package deal (37m24s).
  • For muscle mass maintenance, a workout routine involving three to five rep ranges with slow and controlled movements is being considered, to avoid inhibiting skiing training (37m49s).
  • The skiing training itself will provide enough ballistic and dynamic movements, making it unnecessary to incorporate them into the workout routine (38m0s).

Protein's role in my regimen. (38m2s)

  • The current protein regimen is based on consuming at least one gram of protein per pound of body weight, which is considered adequate for muscle growth and recovery, especially during physically intensive training (38m6s).
  • The training regimen includes gym sessions at night before dinner, skiing, taking technical lessons, and attempting challenging tasks such as bumps and backcountry skiing (38m28s).
  • The training also involves ski touring, which includes skinning up the mountain and then skiing down, requiring a high level of physical intensity (38m50s).
  • In addition to protein, a significant amount of carbohydrates will also be consumed to support the physically intensive training (38m57s).
  • The goal is not to achieve massive muscle gains, but rather to support muscle growth and recovery during intense training sessions (38m15s).

LICUS (Low-Intensity Continuous Ultrasound Therapies). (39m6s)

  • Low-Intensity Continuous Ultrasound (LICUS) therapies have been experimented with, using patches with electrodes and cables that administer low-intensity ultrasound over a period of 1 to 4 hours per site of treatment (39m19s).
  • The device is being used for recovery, specifically to address tendonitis around the insertion points of the infraspinatus, with two coupling patches placed on the front and rear of the shoulder (40m7s).
  • LICUS has been used for about a month, and while it's unclear if it's the cause of reduced pain, the technology seems to help with tissue remodeling and proliferation of different growth factors (40m28s).
  • The effects of LICUS can be researched using the Consensus app, which uses AI to assess published literature from reputable journals and provide an indication of the evidence supporting its use (40m36s).
  • Unlike other types of stimulation, such as TENS units, LICUS does not appear to work by overriding or overstimulating nerves to reduce pain, but rather by promoting tissue remodeling and growth factor proliferation (41m7s).
  • The first use of LICUS resulted in the acute pain in the shoulder vanishing within an hour, although it's unclear if this was due to the placebo effect (41m41s).

Early adoption leads to mainstream affordability. (41m49s)

  • The cost of a particular device is not cheap, with the coupling patches being very expensive, at around $900 for 16 patches, making it a significant expense, especially for those using it daily or twice a day, with a 2-month supply costing around $10,000 (41m49s).
  • However, as the technology becomes more popular and developed, and with increased competition, the price is expected to drop significantly, making it more affordable for the masses (42m47s).
  • This phenomenon has been observed in various industries, where early adoption by high-end consumers with disposable income drives down prices over time, making products more accessible to the general public (43m13s).
  • Examples of this trend include the cost of Rath, an alternative to cholesterol medication, which decreased from $2,500 per month to $500 without insurance, and the development of V2 Max machines, which are now available for home use and are expected to become less expensive over time (43m37s).
  • Other examples of this trend include the development of Uber, where the initial high-end service subsidized the development of more affordable options, and Tesla, which followed a similar pattern (44m2s).
  • The early adoption of new technologies and products by high-end consumers can ultimately benefit the masses by driving down prices and making these products more widely available (44m15s).

Inexpensive injury avoidance/reversal. (44m17s)

  • Inexpensive injury avoidance and reversal methods are being explored, with a focus on exercises that deliver a high "bang for the buck" in terms of injury prevention (44m17s).
  • The "4-Hour Body" book has a chapter on reversing permanent injuries, which includes exercises that are still effective, such as the chop and lift with cable machines and the Turkish Get Up (44m44s).
  • These exercises are beneficial for shoulder health and can be modified to suit individual needs, such as doing the first portion of the Turkish Get Up on the ground (45m4s).
  • As people get older, it's essential to invest in injury prevention exercises to maintain athleticism and activity levels, as the body's elasticity and regenerative ability decrease with age (45m20s).
  • The chop and lift exercise has a slow, under-control rotational component that can help develop or redevelop the spinal engine, as discussed by SEMA Iyang (45m34s).
  • Starting with small, safe steps, such as incorporating mild rotational exercises, can be an effective way to begin injury prevention and reversal (45m58s).
  • A daily routine that includes a cold brew coffee and a trip to the gym can be a great way to re-enter a fitness routine after a period of abstinence (46m25s).
  • Kaa coffee is a favorite coffee brand, known for its dark, dense, and nutrient-rich flavor, which is also high in antioxidants (46m38s).

Apps for tracking and planning finances. (46m59s)

  • The goal for January is to drink six fewer drinks per month, and this is part of a larger effort to continually re-evaluate and simplify processes, especially with increasing complexity in life (46m59s).
  • The investing approach has become simpler, with the majority of exposure being at True Ventures, and the use of a new app called Monarch to track finances and get a budget under control starting in January (47m49s).
  • Monarch is preferred for its holistic view of net worth and data-rich budgeting, and it ties together all accounts in a single view (48m47s).
  • Other recommended apps for financial management include Projection Lab for retirement planning and Kubera for tracking larger investments and overall net worth (48m10s).
  • The investment portfolio includes VTI for global exposure to the total stock market index, and the crypto allocation has been increased to 10% of overall net worth, with a focus on Bitcoin (49m58s).
  • The decision to increase the crypto allocation was made in anticipation of potential market changes, including the possibility of Donald Trump winning the election (50m28s).
  • A prediction is made that the US government will start adding cryptocurrency to its reserves within the next couple of years, treating it as a currency held in reserve, which could lead to a significant increase in value, potentially reaching $250,000 or more per coin (50m42s).
  • The idea of "shilling" or promoting a particular cryptocurrency to artificially inflate its value is no longer possible with Bitcoin due to its massive volume, making it impossible for any individual or group to significantly impact its price (51m27s).
  • The concept of shilling may still apply to smaller, less established cryptocurrencies, often referred to as "shitcoins" (52m17s).
  • A personal approach to holding Bitcoin is to keep it in a separate, inaccessible account, such as Coinbase's custody feature, to avoid the temptation to trade or sell it, with the intention of holding it for 50 years or more (52m23s).
  • The rise of digital assets is seen as irreversible, and they will continue to play a significant role in the future, making them a valuable part of a diversified portfolio (52m58s).
  • A personal investment strategy involves making occasional one-off stock purchases, with a recent successful example being an early investment in Nvidia (53m14s).
  • There is a bullish outlook on the return of nuclear power in the United States over the next decade, driven by the need for alternative energy sources to support growing data centers and AI technologies (53m39s).
  • A fund has been found that holds a basket of public nuclear stocks, including uranium manufacturers, nuclear plants, and companies considering new smaller plants, with the intention of adding more companies as they go public (54m8s).
  • The fund in question is the VanEck ETF Trust Uranium and Nuclear Energy Basket of Stocks, with the ticker symbol NLR (54m36s).
  • This investment has a high expense ratio, but a small investment is being made into it due to the potential for outperforming the S&P over the next decade (54m43s).

Bitcoin and other investment projections. (54m54s)

  • Bitcoin is predicted to hit $250, and the US government is expected to add it to its reserves within the next two years (54m54s).
  • Several AI companies that have raised hundreds of millions of dollars are expected to struggle to raise capital and go under in 2025 (55m9s).
  • The major players in the startup space are expected to be overshadowed by the large companies, referred to as "the alphabet companies," which will dominate the AI-related market (55m25s).
  • Open AI is expected to be fine due to its close ties with Microsoft and its work on other devices (55m35s).

AI mobile device predictions. (55m45s)

  • A prediction for 2025 is that OpenAI will launch a mobile device, possibly smart headphones, that integrates AI at the device level, making it easily accessible to users (55m45s).
  • The goal is to make AI as convenient as possible, similar to how Apple and Google have already integrated AI into their devices, so users don't need to download separate apps like ChatGPT (56m9s).
  • To gain traction, OpenAI's device would need to offer a unique user interface that revolutionizes the way people interact with technology, rather than just replicating existing interfaces (57m19s).
  • OpenAI is working with Johnny Ive, the former head of design at Apple, to reimagine the phone and create a more intuitive and sexy interface (57m28s).
  • The future of AI-powered devices is expected to enable users to perform complex tasks with simple voice commands, eliminating the need to navigate multiple apps and enter personal information (58m1s).
  • A potential concept for OpenAI's device is a "dumb phone" with a single button that connects users to a virtual assistant, handling all tasks except for Google Maps (58m32s).
  • The idea is to simplify the user experience by avoiding the clutter of multiple apps and providing a more streamlined way to access information and services (59m1s).
  • Professionals are starting to leave their iPhones outside of their offices and using "dumb phones" with only essential features like maps, emergency contact numbers, and music, which could be a trend in the future (59m14s).
  • A potential future device could be a one-button phone that uses an AI assistant through Open AI, providing only necessary features like calling, maps, Uber, music, and credit cards (59m46s).
  • This device might not replace regular smartphones but could attract 100,000 to 200,000 techies who would be willing to overpay for it and test the technology (1h0m30s).
  • Meta's Ray-Ban glasses are finally gaining traction, offering features like real-time translations and potentially real-time doxing, which could be a significant development in the field of augmented reality (1h0m49s).
  • A Harvard student discovered a way to use the Ray-Ban glasses to immediately dox people, which raises concerns about the potential misuse of this technology (1h1m23s).
  • Microsoft is predicted to release an Android phone that integrates their suite of office software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as ChatGPT from Open AI (1h1m46s).
  • The Microsoft phone would likely be Android-based, similar to a Google phone, and could potentially include Gemini, which would provide built-in competition for Open AI (1h2m11s).
  • Android phones were discussed in relation to Google services, with the mention that Google had certain requirements for using Android, even though it's open source, and that these requirements might include bundling specific services (1h2m35s).
  • Samsung phones were used as an example of how Android can be used without Google services, as they have their own browsers and email applications, and are based on Android (1h2m56s).
  • The possibility of swapping out Google services for alternative options was mentioned, with Samsung's existing use of alternative AI services as a potential example (1h3m1s).
  • A prediction was made that there will be some type of confirmation of an unspecified event or development (1h3m9s).

AI's place in the future of music creation. (1h3m10s)

  • A significant increase in creativity around music creation is expected to happen in the next couple of years, allowing for a massive unlock in this field (1h3m10s).
  • This development will enable users to prompt music creation in a fun and exciting way, similar to how images can be generated with text prompts, such as "show me a fox swimming underwater grabbing an apple" (1h3m21s).
  • The technology will make it possible for an average consumer to sound like a real music producer for the first time, thanks to the explosion of creativity it will bring (1h3m41s).
  • Early beta versions of this technology have already been seen and are reported to be a lot of fun, indicating a promising future for music creation (1h3m47s).
  • This development is expected to happen within the next 12 to 18 months, with 18 months being a more likely timeframe (1h3m52s).

We're not saying it's aliens, but… (1h3m56s)

  • The topic of aliens and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) is discussed, with a mention of a Navy fighter pilot who witnessed some of these phenomena and a new government push for transparency (1h4m1s).
  • Elon Musk's influence in potentially uncovering declassified information about UAPs is mentioned, with a sense of excitement and fear about the possibility of discovering the truth (1h4m35s).
  • A personal estimate of 90% is given for the likelihood of aliens existing and the government being aware of it (1h4m56s).
  • Research was conducted on government reports, first-hand testimony, and the Tic Tac incident to determine what can be said with certainty and what cannot (1h5m18s).
  • The majority of UAP sightings can be explained by natural phenomena or man-made objects, but a small percentage remain unexplained (1h6m25s).
  • The government has a history of covering up test craft flights and using misinformation campaigns to explain away sightings (1h6m53s).
  • Congressional testimony and multiple video sources have documented phenomena that defy explanation, with descriptions of behavior that cannot be explained by current technology (1h7m33s).
  • The idea of "little green men" in these ships is considered unlikely, unless they are tourists (1h8m3s).
  • The possibility of aliens visiting Earth is considered, with the idea that if they are advanced enough to travel here, they wouldn't risk injury by engaging in warfare, suggesting that their presence might be for tourism purposes (1h8m11s).
  • The idea of "Teenage alien DUIs" is proposed, where aliens might be visiting Earth, having a few drinks, and then crashing their vehicles, similar to human teenagers getting into accidents while driving under the influence (1h8m50s).
  • An app called Enigma, which uses machine learning to analyze UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sightings, is mentioned as a resource for those interested in the topic (1h9m7s).
  • A Netflix documentary called "Moment of Contact" is recommended, which covers a 1996 UFO crash in Brazil and features eyewitness accounts of aliens wandering the neighborhood after the crash (1h9m39s).
  • The documentary is compared to "ET" and is described as a compelling watch, with a production company called Bad Robot, founded by JJ Abrams, also producing UFO-related content (1h10m10s).
  • Alternate explanations for alien abduction reports are proposed, including the idea that the experiences might be related to psychedelic drug experiences or the release of endogenous DMT, which could produce similar hallucinations (1h11m14s).
  • The possibility that aliens might be visiting Earth by bending the time-space continuum is considered, but the idea that they would return humans after abducting them is questioned (1h11m50s).
  • The possibility of time-traveling humans sending intervention teams to the past is considered, as it may be equally plausible as the idea of aliens visiting Earth from far away (1h12m3s).
  • Many UFO sightings have been reported around nuclear facilities, such as missile silos, which raises questions about the purpose of these sightings (1h12m38s).
  • Alternative explanations for these sightings are explored, including the possibility that the increased number of reports is due to better surveillance and diagnostic tools (1h13m17s).
  • The idea that state actors, such as China or the Soviet Union, may be responsible for some UFO sightings is also considered, but the propulsion and aeronautic behaviors of some craft do not seem to reflect current technology (1h14m36s).
  • A small percentage of reported UFO phenomena remains unexplained, and finding a "hot spot" for UFO sightings could be an interesting area of investigation (1h15m2s).
  • The idea of visiting a location known for UFO sightings, such as a hot spot, is proposed as a fun and potentially interesting experience (1h15m17s).
  • A personal anecdote is shared about a childhood experience of seeing a cigar-shaped UFO with family members, which remains unexplained (1h15m34s).
  • There is speculation about the possibility of aliens or pseudo-aliens, with a mention of a fair amount of military testing, leaving the topic open to interpretation (1h15m58s)

David Bars, Maui Nui Venison, and ethical wild meat harvesting. (1h16m13s)

  • A company called Maui Nui Venison is highlighted for its nutrient-dense and ethically harvested red meat products, specifically their venison sticks, which contain 10% liver and heart in addition to muscle, making them a multivitamin in a meat product (1h16m41s).
  • Another product mentioned is David bars, which have a high protein per calorie ratio of 28 grams of protein per 150 calories, making them a convenient option for traveling (1h17m32s).
  • The importance of Maui Nui Venison's business model is emphasized, as it is a for-profit company that does good by harvesting Axis deer, which were introduced to Hawaii and have no natural predators, causing ecological damage (1h18m38s).
  • The company's harvesting method is considered more ethical than traditional factory farming, as the deer are shot in the field at night with minimal stress (1h19m16s).
  • The founder of Maui Nui Venison, Jake Muse, is praised for his exceptional leadership and talent development skills, making him one of the most impressive company leaders (1h18m9s).
  • A trip to Maui was taken, where a visit to a retirement home was joked about, but the actual purpose was to participate in a Holo Holo Harvest, a community food sharing program that was created in response to food insecurity in Hawaii during the COVID-19 lockdowns (1h20m8s).
  • The Holo Holo Harvest program has undergone significant changes, including restructuring their operations to focus on helping communities in need, and has donated over 120,000 pounds of venison since the 2023 fires (1h21m25s).
  • The program uses specialized equipment, including infrared cameras and scopes, to capture and retrieve deer, and the author participated in the butchering process to gain experience (1h21m45s).
  • The author found the experience to be grounding and visually arresting, and believes it makes one fully aware of what is involved in putting food on the table, particularly when it comes to eating meat (1h22m40s).
  • The author feels unconflicted about eating meat, but acknowledges that others may feel conflicted, and believes that there is a disconnect between eating meat and being aware of the animal it comes from (1h22m52s).
  • The author notes that in the past, people were more directly involved in the process of obtaining food, and that this has been stripped out of modern culture (1h23m24s).
  • A unique operation is being run where they use everything from the animals they harvest, which is also deeply inspiring, and they are effectively restoring an ecosystem by feeding the local community and providing nutrient-dense meat (1h23m43s).
  • The operation is bringing back traditions, such as the "nose to tail" concept, where chefs use all different aspects of the animal for consumption, product use, or other purposes, resulting in very little waste (1h24m12s).
  • The operation is able to harvest deer from private land, which is unique because in the United States, it is illegal to buy game meat due to concerns about poaching on public land and overkilling, which can lead to wildlife management issues (1h24m33s).
  • The operation is so unique that even some vegans and vegetarians, who object to animal husbandry practices such as factory farming, make an exception for the meat produced by this operation, which is the only meat they consume (1h25m8s).

Alternative field trips considered. (1h25m30s)

  • Alternative field trips are being considered, which would involve team members participating in unique experiences, such as riding ATVs and seeing displays, to gain firsthand knowledge of supported companies or nonprofits (1h25m31s).
  • The idea of alternative field trips was suggested by one of the employees, who wanted to gain hands-on experience with one of the supported organizations (1h26m0s).
  • Initially, the team considered working with the Amazon conservation team, but this would have required two weeks off the grid and would have been logistically complicated (1h26m9s).
  • The Amazon conservation team has been supported in the past, with work done in Columbia and Suram, among other places (1h26m13s).
  • The team is also involved in psychedelic research and donations, which may be related to the alternative field trip idea (1h26m29s).

From a simmering seven or eight to a chill two. (1h26m32s)

  • A person's anxiety level has decreased significantly, from a "simmering seven or eight" to a "chill two," due to various factors such as living in Hawaii, getting good sleep, exercising, and meditating twice a day (1h26m39s).
  • The person has been meditating for about a month, which was initially started as a response to a disappointing result from a booster of accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (1h27m12s).
  • Accelerated TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses transcranial magnetic stimulation over a 5-day period, with 8-minute sessions every hour for 10 hours a day, and had a significant impact on the person's generalized anxiety (1h27m50s).
  • The person attempted to reduce the duration of the TMS treatment to 2-3 days but found it to be ineffective, leading to the conclusion that the full 5-day treatment is necessary (1h28m18s).
  • The person found the failed attempts at reducing the TMS treatment duration to be disheartening, especially considering the high cost and time-consuming nature of the treatment (1h28m35s).
  • The person plans to revisit the 5-day TMS treatment and figure out the right cadence, despite the challenges and expenses involved (1h28m41s).

Aversion-defusing meditation — this is The Way. (1h28m49s)

  • Meditation options have been explored, and an app called The Way has been found to be particularly effective, with sessions that can be adjusted in length, and a default setting of 10 minutes has been found to have a significant cumulative effect in reducing generalized anxiety, with twice-daily sessions being a non-negotiable part of the daily routine (1h28m50s).
  • The app features Henry Shuckman, who has a very relaxing voice, and offers 30 free sessions, allowing users to get a feel for the app without committing to a purchase (1h30m47s).
  • The effectiveness of the app has been compared to experimental TMS therapy, which was found to be much more expensive, with a cost of $30,000 to $50,000, inclusive of treatment, hotels, and flights (1h29m57s).
  • Alternative options, such as Brain Sway and MAG Ventures devices, have also been explored, but The Way app has been found to be a more cost-effective and convenient option (1h30m16s).
  • The importance of product testing and providing feedback has been emphasized, with the example of sending a million Looms to co-founders as product feedback (1h31m14s).
  • The value of being a paying customer, even as an investor, has been highlighted, as it allows for a more authentic experience and the ability to report any glitches in the system (1h31m21s).
  • The challenges of navigating investments and endorsements have been discussed, with the example of being hesitant to overly endorse a product without fully understanding it (1h32m8s).
  • The team behind an app has been quick to implement feedback and update their product, which has been impressive, and they have been one of the fastest teams to fine-tune their product (1h32m47s).
  • The app is a real zen master teaching course, not just a commercialized meditation product, and it's for people who want to go deep into meditation and achieve something bigger (1h33m48s).
  • The app provides skill development in a logical progression, teaching users how to recognize and label their thoughts and emotions, which can be applied to everyday life (1h34m24s).
  • The app doesn't let users skip sessions, ensuring they complete the meditation practice and develop the skills (1h35m57s).
  • The app's effectiveness is demonstrated by a personal experience where the user was able to recognize and defuse a negative emotion, called a "verion," in a real-life situation, using the skills learned from the app (1h35m36s).
  • The app's approach to meditation is not just about feeling good while using the app, but about developing skills that can be applied to everyday life (1h35m51s).
  • The app's creator, Henry, is a real zen master who teaches users through the app, providing a deep and meaningful meditation experience (1h33m39s).
  • Following a program is essential, and one must not skip around due to impatience or indulging in whims, as it is necessary to follow through with the program's steps, which include X, Y, and Z, in order to achieve the desired outcome (1h36m0s).

Retreat! (1h36m21s)

  • A New Year's resolution has been made to attend a retreat, which is considered a big one for the year (1h36m23s).
  • The individual has already attended several retreats and is concerned about running out of Henry, but still has a lot left (1h36m37s).
  • There are plans to attend a 7-day in-person retreat, with the possibility of a 5-day one also being considered (1h36m45s).
  • The retreat plans are contingent on not consuming a large amount of mushrooms beforehand (1h36m51s).
  • A past experience involving fasting for 6 days and taking a microdose of a substance was not a good experience and resulted in PTSD-like symptoms (1h36m59s).
  • The individual acknowledges that bad decisions were made during the past experience and is open to discussing it (1h37m5s).

Making time for friendship bonding. (1h37m8s)

  • New Year's resolutions are discussed, with a suggestion to think about "New Year's reservations" instead, focusing on scheduling time for goals and activities in the calendar, as if it's not in the calendar, it's not real (1h37m27s).
  • The core of New Year's reservations is extended periods of time with close friends who give energy and leave one feeling better about life and the world (1h37m56s).
  • Plans are made to rent a house in January and February, and friends are invited to join, with activities such as skiing (1h38m20s).
  • A week-long Alpine survivalist training in the Rockies is booked for next August, and friends are invited to join (1h38m45s).
  • The importance of male-only activities and groups is discussed, as they are becoming less common, and the annual reunion is a way to provide a space for men to connect and have experiences without their families (1h39m30s).
  • The annual reunion is not a mixed-gender group, as there are few socially acceptable male-only activities or groups, and it's a way to give men a chance to connect and have experiences without their families (1h39m41s).
  • The goal is to block out time for friends over the year, providing a space for men to connect and have experiences without their families (1h40m33s).
  • Many men struggle to bond with others in the same way that women do, often preferring to spend time together without talking, but there are limited options for this type of social interaction (1h40m51s).
  • Friendships require cultivation and nourishment to prevent them from atrophying, and this applies to both men and women (1h41m16s).
  • It's essential for individuals to take breaks and have time for themselves, whether it's going out with friends, getting a massage, or engaging in other activities (1h41m35s).
  • The idea that partners should spend all their time together and meet all each other's needs is a relatively new concept and can be unrealistic (1h41m56s).
  • Having multiple close relationships, rather than relying solely on a partner, can help distribute emotional labor and make relationships more sustainable (1h42m9s).
  • Blocking out dedicated time for social activities, such as boys-only trips or family vacations, can help ensure that these events happen and are not crowded out by other commitments (1h42m41s).
  • Making New Year's reservations, or scheduling social activities in advance, can be an effective way to prioritize friendships and make time for them (1h42m40s).
  • Daria, the wife, is not naturally inclined to engage in social activities with women, but is encouraged to do so to nurture her friendships (1h41m28s).

NOBNOM complete. System reset. (1h42m52s)

  • A 30-day challenge called "NOBNOM" has been completed, which involved abstaining from booze, masturbation, and coffee for a month, with some readers and fans joining in, and the experience was a fantastic reset (1h42m52s).
  • The challenge also included drinking tea instead of coffee, and the reintroduction of the previously abstained activities has been done in the last week (1h43m4s).
  • The experience has led to a realization that these activities can be addictive behaviors, and there is a consideration to continue the abstinence from booze for January or to limit it to certain times (1h43m37s).
  • The challenge has contributed to lowered anxiety and a more chill state of mind, and an interview with a female psychiatrist mentioned that abstaining from cannabis use for 2 to 4 weeks can lead to a drop in anxiety in many cases (1h44m20s).
  • The idea of resetting the system by abstaining from certain activities was inspired by the interview, and the goal is to see what it looks like to reset the system and find a balance (1h45m9s).
  • There is a consideration to limit coffee consumption to one cup in the morning, as it is easy to overconsume, and the goal is to find a balance and avoid excessive consumption (1h45m41s).
  • The experience has been beneficial, and the goal is to find a balance and avoid excessive consumption of activities that can be addictive (1h45m21s).

The benefits of taking a break from alcohol. (1h46m1s)

  • Taking a break from alcohol has been a recurring goal for the past few years, with a shift from having a hard and fast rule to understanding that there will be moments when having a couple of drinks with friends is acceptable, as long as it's not a regular occurrence (1h46m1s).
  • It's essential to make drinking an occasion, such as a special moment with a friend or a good meal, rather than a constant habit that can make one feel not their best version of themselves (1h46m23s).
  • Excessive drinking can deplete nutrients and B vitamins, leading to increased anxiety, despite the initial feeling of reduced anxiety (1h47m3s).
  • Drinking can also disrupt sleep patterns, and while it may reduce anxiety for a short period, it can lead to feeling unwell for an extended time (1h47m17s).
  • Exercise is a crucial factor in maintaining healthy habits, as it can help tip over other habits and make it easier to stick to a routine, with the added motivation of not wanting to perform poorly due to the consequences of drinking (1h47m30s).
  • Having a schedule with physical activities, such as a ski lesson or training, can serve as a corrective mechanism to hold oneself to a line and avoid drinking excessively, as the consequences of poor performance are more noticeable (1h48m1s).
  • Increased movement and exercise can lead to other habits falling into place, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle (1h48m26s).

A few reading recommendations. (1h48m33s)

  • A recommended audiobook is "The Present Moment: A Retreat on the Practice of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh, which features guided meditations and is available on Audible (1h49m31s).
  • The audiobook is a recorded retreat with Thich Nhat Hanh, and it has been helpful in making the listener more open to mindfulness (1h50m5s).
  • Another recommended book is "After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal About Life and Beyond" by Dr. Bruce Greyson, a credible researcher from the University of Virginia (1h51m0s).
  • Dr. Greyson's book explores near-death experiences and is a fascinating and well-researched account of a poorly understood phenomenon (1h52m38s).
  • Dr. Greyson was a guest on the podcast, and his episode is worth checking out for those interested in his research and story (1h53m11s).
  • The book "After" was recommended by Daria, who had it in her Audible library, and it has been an enjoyable and thought-provoking read (1h53m16s).

Parting thoughts. (1h53m32s)

  • A greeting is extended to Dardar and the kids, with a request to give them a hug (1h53m33s).
  • A message is sent to pet Molly and to pass along a hello to the parents (1h53m39s).
  • A holiday greeting is shared, expressing love and looking forward to seeing each other in January (1h53m44s).

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