7 Conversations That Changed How I Think in 2024
Hi Reader
It is no secret that I am a big fan of podcasts.
Partly because I’m a big proponent of what I call “double time.”
That is the time I get to use twice – like listening to a podcast while driving, cooking, or working out.
To me, it’s the opposite of scrolling social media or daily news, which is “double negative time” – I get confronted with a lot of negativity, and it wastes my time as the feed absorbs all my attention.
In this last newsletter of 2024, I wanted to share with you my 9 favorite podcast episodes of the year.
Each of these has influenced my thinking in some meaningful way, and I hope they do the same for you.
#1
Modern Wisdom #806: Brian Klaas – Chaos Theory. The Hidden Force That Secretly Controls Your Life
Few conversations have influenced my thinking this year more than this one. Brian Klaas discusses his book Fluke (see last week’s newsletter) with one of my favourite podcasters, Chris Williamson.
Key take-away: Thanks to the narrative fallacy, we see patterns where there are none and therefore underestimate the impact of chance on us and human history.
#2
The Knowledge Project – August 20: April Dunford on Positioning
April Dunford, a master in product positioning, explains how to make your offering stand out in a crowded market. Her approach is both strategic and highly practical, with actionable frameworks you can use immediately.
Key take-away: Positioning is about helping your audience understand why they should care. Clarity beats complexity every single time.
#3
Diary of a CEO – December 9: Vanessa Van Edwards on the Science of People
In this episode, body language and behavioral expert Vanessa Van Edwards dives deep into how small cues influence the way people perceive us. Whether you’re in leadership, sales, or just want better relationships, this episode is a goldmine.
Key take-away: Mastering charisma comes down to two pillars: warmth and competence. Balance the two, and you’ll elevate your influence.
#4
The Tim Ferriss Show #732: Martha Beck – The Amazing and Brutal Results of Zero Lies for 365 Days
Martha Beck, often described as “the best-known life coach in America,” advocates a life of radical honesty and integrity – for your own sake and that of your loved ones. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend her book The Way of Integrity (which is inspired by Dante’s Inferno).
Key take-away: Living in alignment with your true self is the path to genuine peace and happiness.
#5
Think Fast, Talk Smart #164: Robert Cialdini on Pre-Suasion
Pre-Suasion – also the title of one of Robert Cialdini’s excellent books – is a concept that will become even more important in 2025. As consumers, we don’t want to be sold to. We want to decide for ourselves, and often, we make up our minds long before the sales pitch.
Key take-away: Content is the new sales. Influence happens before the conversation starts. Prepare accordingly.
#6
The Prof G Pod – November 9: No Mercy, No Malice: The Podcast Election
Scott Galloway dissects the shifting media landscape and its growing influence on politics. His analysis is sharp, short, and essential for anyone who wants to understand where we’re heading.
Key take-away: TV is dying, and podcasts are rising – long-form, unedited conversations are reshaping how voters connect with candidates.
#7
Career Blast in a Half: November 6 - How To Be A Likeable Badass And Why It Matters with Alison Fragale
This episode explores how to strike the perfect balance between being likeable and assertive in your professional life. If you’re struggling to be taken seriously without losing your warmth, this conversation is for you.
Key take-away: Confidence and kindness are not opposites – combining them is the key to becoming a “likeable badass.”
These episodes offered me valuable lessons, new perspectives, and plenty of food for thought throughout the year. I hope they inspire and challenge you as much as they did me.
As we close out 2024, I want to thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a new year filled with learning, growth, and meaningful conversations.
See you in 2025!
Oliver
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