unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

Michael Strevens, a philosophy professor, delves into the irrational elements in modern science. He discusses the motivations and aesthetics driving scientific progress, touching on the balance between empirical data and intellectual context. The podcast explores the human aspects of scientific inquiry, revealing the joy of understanding causal models. Strevens reflects on the rule of science and the significance of adhering to agreed-upon rules in scientific research.

Explore the essence of human connections with Robin Dunbar, discussing the impact of friendship, religion, and storytelling on our well-being. Discover the evolutionary forces behind social bonds and the practical applications for modern-day relationships and organizational cultures. Dive into the dynamics of friendship, group sizes, and the collegiate system's intense bonding experiences at universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

Discover the transformative power of simple interactions like asking about someone's day. Nicholas Epley and Greg delve into social nuances, cross-cultural engagement, and the impact of technology on interactions. Uncover the science of social cognition and how it can enrich personal and professional relationships.

Exploring the dominance of left-leaning ideologies in academia, John Ellis and Greg discuss the consequences of political correctness and identity politics. They highlight the impact on traditional scholarly perspectives and society's dialogue. The conversation raises questions about the sustainability of ideological shifts and the need for diverse viewpoints in academic departments.

Mark Kurlansky discusses the historical significance of salt, cheese, and dairy products in shaping economies and cultures. He also explores the link between food choices, nonviolence, and the impact of 1968 on societal attitudes towards war. The conversation delves into the evolution of cookbooks, the shift towards critical thinking in education, and the need to reconsider the food economy.

Exploring the complexities of the American healthcare system, Vivian Lee and Greg dissect the employer-based insurance model, payment models, and incentives, revealing the stark consequences of shifting healthcare costs to employees. They discuss the financial motivations of health providers versus patient demands, highlighting the constant conflict between escalating costs and quality care.

Explore the roots of curiosity with astrophysicist Mario Livio as he discusses the evolutionary necessity, societal attitudes, and the role of curiosity in perpetuating awe. Dive into the dimensions of curiosity, the influence of literature and media, and the correlation between curiosity, creativity, and scientific progress. Discover the power of curiosity in knowledge, overcoming fear, and historical parallels in science denial.

Learn about the hidden impacts of government debt on money creation and the economy. Paul Sheard and Greg LaBlanc unravel myths about deficits, quantitative easing, and the real costs of cutting government spending. Explore the global ramifications of national debt and delve into the complexities of monetary and fiscal policies.

Exploring the flaws in medical research, John Ioannidis and Greg LaBlanc discuss statistical uncertainties, flawed findings, and collaboration in the scientific community. They touch on the incentives driving scientists, the role of humanities in medicine, and the need for transparency and accuracy in research. The podcast delves into the challenges of statistical methods, Bayesian approaches in research, and the significance of randomized trials in clinical settings.

Learn how to master the art of influence with Zoe Chance, as she shares insights on saying no, the power of persuasion, and cultural conditioning. Discover negotiating strategies like the 'Kindly Brontosaurus' approach and the importance of seeking advice over funds. Explore the challenges of introducing dietary initiatives at Google and navigating ethical dilemmas in workplace relationships.