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Today we talk about the growing popularity of marathons, inspired by an article from Natalie Daher in Axios. We discuss the appeal of marathons to young adults and their role as a life milestone, but we also question whether marathon running often crosses the line into obsession and idol worship. Brandon expresses skepticism about the necessity and health benefits of marathons compared to shorter races, while Larry considers the ba...

Today we talk about the importance (or unimportance) of hydration and the science behind it. Covering topics from how much water one should drink daily to the evolution of our understanding of hydration, we provide personal insights and anecdotes about our own water-drinking habits. We explore historical and contemporary perspectives on hydration, the origins of Gatorade, and the surprising ways people have incorporated water consu...

Today we discuss AI-powered apps designed to detect signs of depression through smartphones, smartwatches, and social media. We explore the science behind these technologies, the potential benefits for mental health, and the ethical concerns that come with them. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of technology in healthcare, the role of therapy, and the societal impact of digital monitoring. We try to balanc...

Today we discuss the concept of 'third places' as defined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, which refers to settings individuals frequent beyond their home and workplace. We delve into how these places, such as Brandon’s Elks Lodge and Larry's church, serve as crucial environments for community interaction and combating loneliness. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes about our experiences with third places, including th...

Today we talk about the complexities of faith, nuance, and authentic spirituality, reflecting on personal growth and the importance of inner peace. We discuss a recent post from the Center for Action and Contemplation, exploring themes from Richard Rohr's writing on the spiral journey of faith. The conversation delves into the pitfalls of black and white thinking in religious practices, the impacts of rigid beliefs, and the signifi...

Today we dive into the controversy surrounding Harrison Butker's commencement speech at Benedictine College. Butker's comments on women's roles and conservative values sparked debate and drew responses from notable figures like Bill Maher. The hosts discuss the backlash from the left, the complexity of free speech, and the nuances of expressing personal beliefs in public settings. They also touch upon broader themes such as corpora...

Today we talk about how to create the perfect child in a lab and whether we should. We talk about choosing a child with specific traits and the larger implications of selecting a child's characteristics through IVF. The conversation explores ethical concerns, the role of the fertility industry, and the unregulated nature of these practices in the U.S. References are made to an article by Emmy Netfield, touching on societal views an...

Today we discuss a sensitive and critical topic: teen suicide. We delve into insights from a Vox interview with sociologist Anna Muller, who explores the social roots and contributing factors to youth suicide, particularly in affluent, predominantly white communities (but not always). The discussion includes the impact of suicide clusters, the role of social media, and societal pressures on teenagers. We also reflect on the increas...

Today we discuss a New York Times article by Aaron Griffith on the increasing trend of young professionals using corporate tools to manage their personal lives and relationships. We explore how various apps like Google Keep, Slack, and Notion can help couples stay organized amidst the chaos of modern life. The conversation delves into our own experiences with technology in marital management while debating the practicality and impl...

Today we delve into a discussion about solo dating. We reference an article by Jamie Stiles from Dua Lipa's online magazine, Service 95, exploring whether solo dating is simply a TikTok trend or an essential tool for well-being. We (Larry and Brandon) share personal anecdotes and opinions on spending time alone, the cultural shift towards constant connectivity, and the challenge of enjoying one's own company without digital distrac...

Today, co-hosts Larry Monsond and Brandon Dibble tackle the topic of retirement and how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted people's decisions to retire early. We discuss the changing attitudes towards work and retirement, with research showing a decreasing interest in working past traditional retirement ages. We explore various factors contributing to this trend, including financial planning, personal fulfillment, and the systemic...

Today we talk about why liberals tend to be sadder (personally) than conservatives stemming from an in-depth analysis of a New York Times opinion article by Thomas B. Edsel about the happiness gap between conservatives and liberals. We explore why conservatives reportedly feel happier than liberals, linking it to conservatives' less frequent agitation by social and economic inequalities and their belief in the system's fairness tow...

Today we engage in a candid discussion about the surge in sports betting in the United States, referencing a report by Thomas Schlechter on CNN. We explore the statistics that highlight the vast amounts of money wagered on events like the Super Bowl and the Kentucky Derby, and the legal expansion of sports betting to 38 states and the District of Columbia. The conversation then shifts to the darker side of sports betting, focusing ...

Today we take on the oh so easy but maybe complex issues of Christian Nationalism, the Israel-Hamas war, and the role of faith in shaping political and social views. We explore the varied opinions within the Christian community in the U.S. regarding the conflict, highlighting the tension between those supporting either side and those striving for peace. The conversation delves into the biblical justifications used by some Christian...

Today we talk about the concept of calorie restriction and its potential effects on longevity. We discuss the scientifically observed benefits of calorie restriction in lab mice, such as increased resilience to toxins and faster recovery from injuries, and ponder whether these benefits translate to humans. We engage in a spirited debate over various dietary philosophies, including intermittent fasting, the influence of breakfast on...