1183: Astro Teller | How to Systematically Realize the Impossible

A polyamorous adventure with your husband and a podcaster took unexpected turns. Now single, you're questioning everything. Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday: You were involved in a complex polyamorous relationship with your husband and a popular podcaster. After your marriage ended, you continued seeing the podcaster but now feel conflicted about the relationship. How should you handle these changing dynamics and your evolving desires? You run a clothing company and have a local competitor who's been imitating your hard work, from product designs to marketing materials. They're even claiming to be the first in the market. How will you protect your brand and deal with this insufferable interloper? You experienced a toxic relationship with an older man who manipulated and cheated on you. Now in a healthy relationship, you're struggling with trust issues and paranoia. Can you overcome your past trauma and fully embrace your current partnership? You've achieved your dream job in the Coast Guard but worry about missing out on family time and memories. As you consider applying for flight school — which could mean frequent relocations — how will you balance your career aspirations with your desire for close family connections? Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com! Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger. Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi. Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1022 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

26 Jul 20241h 4min

Inside Russia YouTuber Konstantin Samoilov exposes what life under Vladimir Putin has been like — from fleeing mobilization to facing KGB threats abroad. What We Discuss with Konstantin Samoilov: Why someone who has lived through the transition of Russia from a Soviet superpower to an oligarchic dictatorship now lives in exile and sleeps with one eye open. How the arrival of companies like McDonald's in the 1990s had a significant psychological impact on Russians, challenging their perceptions of the West. The stark differences between American meritocracy and the "blat" (nepotism) system prevalent in Russia, which limits opportunities for those without connections. How, contrary to official propaganda, the Russian economy is suffering due to sanctions, brain drain, a mass population exodus of three million, and a focus on military production at the expense of other sectors. Why Russian state media has shifted from focusing solely on controlling internal narratives to actively trying to shape international perceptions of Russia. And much more... Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1021  This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals  Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!  Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

23 Jul 20241h 28min

Is there a legal "cheat code" for avoiding US laws? Michael Regilio investigates this and other wild things sovereign citizens believe on Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by skeptic, comedian, and podcaster Michael Regilio! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss: The Sovereign Citizen Movement is a fringe group that believes they are not subject to US laws or government authority. They often engage in pseudo-legal arguments and tactics to avoid taxes, licenses, and other societal obligations. The ideology has spread beyond the US to countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, and parts of Europe, indicating it's a growing international phenomenon. The movement has roots in anti-Semitism, white nationalism, and conspiracy theories. It appeals to people in financial distress by promising ways to eliminate debts and access secret government accounts. Sovereign citizen beliefs have no legal validity and have never been successful in court. However, the movement has an estimated 200,000-300,000 adherents in the US. Some sovereign citizens have engaged in violence against law enforcement and government officials. The movement is considered one of the most dangerous domestic extremist groups by US authorities. While sovereign citizen beliefs are misguided and potentially dangerous, the best response is to promote good ideas and accurate information. By educating ourselves and others about the law, government, and civic responsibilities, we can help counter the spread of these harmful ideologies. Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know! Connect with Michael Regilio at Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, and make sure to check out the Michael Regilio Plagues Well With Others podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1020  This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals  Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

21 Jul 202452min

Your niece, pregnant from incest, wants to keep the baby. You're worried about the impact on her and the child. What to do next? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss: Your teenage niece was raped by her grandfather and is now pregnant with his child. She wants to keep the baby, but you're concerned about the impact on both her and the child. How do you find a resolution to this delicate and traumatic situation? You're non-binary and in love with an older man, but your conservative parents disapprove. Caught between your partner and your family, you're struggling to make a decision that feels authentic to you. How will you choose? Your parents ran a successful business for decades, but now your father is facing financial troubles and has fraudulently put your name on business documents without your consent. How will you protect yourself without destroying your relationship? You're pursuing a career as a police officer, but you're worried that a brief accidental encounter with potential child pornography in your past might disqualify you. Will this incident derail your dreams of serving your community? As a burned-out ICU nurse, you took a leap into a new career in nursing informatics. You were afraid of losing the immediate gratification of saving lives. How did this major transition impact your life and career satisfaction? Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com! Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger. Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi. Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1019 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

19 Jul 20241h 6min

All the Worst Humans author Phil Elwood is here to illustrate his past life as a PR operative who made powerful pariahs palatable to public perception! What We Discuss with Phil Elwood: Phil Elwood's career as a PR operative for notorious figures was essentially a real-life version of being a supervillain's henchman, involving ethically dubious practices to manipulate public perception. Phil's work took him into the belly of the beast, collaborating with shady organizations and visiting dangerous locations to spin narratives for some of the world's most detestable characters. The moral weight of constantly lying and bending the truth for nefarious clients exacted a heavy toll on Phil's mental health, leading to substance abuse and requiring intensive therapy. Phil's experiences provide a rare, candid glimpse into the dark underbelly of global PR and political spin, exposing the extent to which public perception can be contrived. Despite his ethically questionable past, Phil's story offers hope for redemption. He has since established clear moral boundaries in his work, demonstrating that it's possible to learn from past mistakes and align one's career with their values. And much more... Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1018 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

16 Jul 20241h 36min

If you're constantly obsessed over predictions that the end of the world is nigh, Andrew Gold has some (mostly) good news for us on this Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by On the Edge host Andrew Gold! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss: Throughout history, would-be prophets and doomsaying groups have predicted the end of the world, but all have been wrong so far. This includes religious prophecies, cult beliefs, and misinterpretations of ancient calendars like the 2012 Mayan prediction. The concept of the end of the world is often used by religions and cults to control their members, instilling fear and promoting compliance with their rules and beliefs. There are several potential threats to humanity's survival, including climate change, nuclear war, pandemics, resource depletion, and the development of artificial intelligence. However, the likelihood of these causing a complete end to humanity is debated. The Fermi Paradox and the concept of the Great Filter suggest that advanced civilizations may face barriers to long-term survival, which could explain why we haven't encountered alien life despite the vastness of the universe. While concerns about global threats are valid, it's important to maintain perspective and not become overly anxious. Humanity has shown resilience and innovation in the face of past challenges. By staying informed, curious, and skeptical, we can work towards addressing potential threats and shaping a positive future for ourselves and future generations. Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know! Connect with Andrew Gold on Twitter and Instagram, and check out On the Edge with Andrew Gold here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts! Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1017 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

14 Jul 202450min

Your husband struggles with emotions and faked crying in therapy. Is he a sociopath or just wounded? Can the marriage be saved? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday: Your husband of five years recently revealed he believes he has borderline personality disorder, struggles to feel emotions, and has a hard time considering how his actions affect you. He's even faked crying in therapy. How do you process this revelation and its impact on your marriage? You paid a substantial sum to work with a publishing coach who suddenly started sharing conspiracy theories about government shutdowns, pedophiles, and Joe Biden being dead. How can you handle this situation while salvaging the investment you've made in your writing career? You're retiring from the military after 20+ years and looking to transition to civilian life. With your diverse skill set and experience, how should you approach talent stacking to build a successful post-military career? Your autistic brother confided in your sister about molesting his niece and engaging in voyeurism. Your sister hasn't told anyone else, and now your other sister wants him to stay with you for the summer. How will you handle this complex family situation? You've experienced a series of unfortunate setbacks in your career, from businesses burning down to scandals and bankruptcies. Despite your resilience and hard work, you're struggling financially. How do you overcome this string of bad luck and find sustainable success? Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com! Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger. Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi. Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1016 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

12 Jul 20241h 8min

AI and biotech are rapidly changing our world. Superconvergence author Jamie Metzl explores the risks and rewards of this unprecedented era! [Part 2/2 — find part 1 here!] What We Discuss with Jamie Metzl: AI and genetics are advancing rapidly, leading to potential breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and solving global challenges like climate change and food scarcity. The development of cell-cultivated meat and other animal products could significantly reduce environmental impact and animal cruelty associated with industrial agriculture. There are concerns about unforeseen consequences of genetic engineering and AI, including potential misuse of technology and ethical dilemmas. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of investigating disease origins thoroughly and following scientific evidence, even when it leads to uncomfortable conclusions. Everyone can and should participate in discussions about emerging technologies and their implications. By educating ourselves on these topics, we can contribute to shaping a better future that balances innovation with ethical considerations and societal needs. And much more — continued from part 1/2 earlier this week! Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1015 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

11 Jul 20241h 4min