Meg Smaker is an American documentary filmmaker known for her immersive storytelling and exploration of complex global issues. Meg shares the impactful experiences from her life, including being kidnapped in Colombia, interacting with Somali pirates, and exploring motivations behind terrorism. Her most notable work is the 2022 feature documentary The UnRedacted (formerly known as 'Jihad Rehab'), which examines the lives of former Guantánamo Bay detainees undergoing rehabilitation in Saudi Arabia...
Jul 03, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Season 2Ep. 25
Cognitive neuroscientist Tali Sharot explores the role of optimism in our lives, examining why individuals often maintain personal hope despite collective anxiety. She explains the concept of optimism bias, how anticipation shapes happiness and memory. Learn more about the Digital Diet and download the chrome plug-in Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! If you would like to support the podcast please consider our Patreon Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett Thanks to ...
Jun 26, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 24
Joshua Greene is an experimental psychologist and neuroscientist, and Professor of Psychology at Harvard University. Joshua shares insights into how evolutionary psychology underpins group cooperation and the challenges of expanding moral circles. Josh also reflects on his personal feelings of hope and commitment towards fostering a more unified and cooperative society. Learn more about Josh and read his books! Learn more about Giving Multiplier (code LIVESWELLLIVED) Learn more about Tango &...
Jun 19, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 2Ep. 23
Cyan Banister is an angel investor and entrepreneur renowned for her early investments in transformative tech companies such as Uber, SpaceX, DeepMind, and Postmates. Banister's path to success was unconventional, she experienced homelessness as a teenager and dropped out of high school.Through self-education and determination, she became a self-taught engineer, holding key roles at a cybersecurity startup acquired by Cisco for $850 million. Cyan emphasises themes of empathy, love, and personal ...
Jun 05, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 2Ep. 22
Slavoj Žižek is a Slovenian philosopher and cultural theorist known for his provocative blend of Marxism, Hegelian philosophy, and Lacanian psychoanalysis, he remains one of the most influential and polarising intellectuals in contemporary thought. Slajov gets into several complex and thought-provoking topics including but not limited to; the catastrophe of love, political philosophy, critiques of both historical and contemporary interpretations of communism, and ultimately whether the pursuit o...
May 29, 2025•1 hr 24 min•Season 2Ep. 21
Cass Sunstein is a prominent American legal scholar, behavioural economist, and professor at Harvard Law School. Cass explores the concept of nudging and libertarian paternalism, addressing ethical concerns around manipulation and autonomy. He reflects on climate justice, the moral duties of high-emission countries, and global accountability in climate policy. Learn more about Cass and read his books! Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! If you would like to support...
May 22, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 20
Lawrence Krauss is a theoretical physicist and cosmologist renowned for his work in particle physics, cosmology, and science communication. Krauss explores the idea of cosmic insignificance and the absence of inherent meaning in the universe, emphasising the importance of appreciating the rarity of life, whilst exploring fundamental questions about the universe and human existence. Learn more about Lawrence and listen to The Origins Podcast Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date ...
May 15, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 2Ep. 19
Rutger Bregman is a Dutch historian, author, and public intellectual renowned for his progressive ideas on social and economic reform. Rutger emphasises that living well means taking meaningful, practical action to address global issues—not just raising awareness. Drawing from his books Humankind and his initiative The School for Moral Ambition , he advocates for channeling ambition into social impact, encouraging career shifts toward solving major problems. He promotes ideas like universal basi...
May 08, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 2Ep. 18
Elizabeth Barnes is an author and Professor of philosophy at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, she reflects on her unconventional journey into philosophy, and her experience living with disabilities. Elizabeth questions conventional views on disability, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of wellbeing, and shares how philosophy helps her find comfort and meaning in life’s challenges. Learn more about Elizabeth and read her books! Donate to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for P...
May 01, 2025•57 min•Season 2Ep. 17
Thomas Nagel is an American philosopher known for exploring consciousness, ethics, and the limits of scientific explanation. He is best known for his essay "What Is It Like to Be a Bat?" and his critique of materialism in Mind and Cosmos . Thomas discusses how he was drawn to philosophy, he elaborates on the major themes of his work, especially the challenge of understanding the subjective experience, and calls for a broader view of reality that encompasses both mental and physical dimensions. B...
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 2Ep. 16
Arthur C. Brooks is an author and academic, he has written 13 books and is a columnist for the Atlantic with 'How to Build a Life' Arthur leads this discussion exploring the concept of happiness from interdisciplinary perspectives, bridging philosophy, neuroscience, and behavioural science. Happiness is defined through the components of enjoyment, satisfaction, and meaning. Arthur address the dilemma of constantly chasing goals and the paradox of the hedonic treadmill. Read Arthur's column in th...
Apr 17, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 2Ep. 15
Antonio Damasio is a neuroscientist renowned for his extensive research into the neural underpinnings of emotions, decision-making, and consciousness Antonio reflects on his groundbreaking work on the brain, the impact of brain injuries on behaviour, and the connection between physical states and mental processes. Antonio speaks on the ethical implications of neuroscience, the future of artificial intelligence, and the importance of art, music, and relationships in leading a meaningful life. Kee...
Apr 10, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 2Ep. 14
Sigal Samuel is a writer, editor, and journalist known for her work on religion, technology, and ethics. Sigal shares her value-driven approach to life, offering insights into moral decision-making, ethical giving, and the complexities of modern ethical dilemmas. Through her work in philosophical ethics and her advice column at Vox 'Your Mileage May Vary' Sigal offers a thoughtful perspective on navigating life’s biggest questions while staying true to oneself. Got an ethical dilemma? reach out ...
Apr 03, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Season 2Ep. 13
David Duchovny is an actor, writer, director, and musician, best known for his iconic role as FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder in The X-Files , a sci-fi series that became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s. David explores the fine line between conspiracy and reality, the ethics of innovation, and the spiritual dimensions of human existence. How do we balance pleasure and meaning in a fulfilled life? What role do failure, empathy, and compassion play in shaping who we become? From personal philosoph...
Mar 27, 2025•59 min•Season 2Ep. 12
Michael Plant is the founding director of the Happier Lives Institute, he discusses the concept of happiness, its definitions, and global wellbeing. Michael shares insights from the newly released 2025 World Happiness Report, highlighting effective charities and the role of global happiness in public policy. Read the 2025 World Happiness Report Learn more about the Happier Lives Institute Learn about Action for Happiness Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executiv...
Mar 20, 2025•51 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Dr. Anna Lembke is professor of psychiatry at Stanford University and author of Dopamine Nation. Anna explores the intricacies of addiction, compulsive overconsumption, the role of dopamine in pleasure and motivation, and the ethical considerations surrounding free will and responsibility in addiction. Learn more about Anna Lembke and read her books! Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett Thanks to our volunteer researchers Hendrik D...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Robert Sapolsky is an academic, author, neuroscientist, and primatologist, who has studied wild baboons in Kenya over a 25 year period. Robert explores how stress and social hierarchies affect baboon health and behaviour and how these findings parallel human experiences in societal structures. Sapolsky discusses the philosophical implications of biological determinism, free will, and moral responsibility. Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executive Producer: Rach...
Mar 06, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Safeena Husain is the founder of Educate Girls – a non-profit organisation that is focussed on mobilising communities for girls’ education in India’s rural areas. Safeena discusses the critical importance of combating deep-rooted cultural and patriarchal biases in favour of girls' educations, and the widespread issue of 122 million girls globally not in school and the dire consequences this has, including early marriage, increased maternal mortality, and intergenerational cycles of poverty. Find...
Feb 27, 2025•51 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Adam McCurdie and Josh Ross, founders of Humanitix, and Alex Amouyel, CEO of Newman's Own Foundation talk about whether the example their companies set can transform capitalism. Find out more about Newman's Own Find out more about Humanitix Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett Thanks to our volunteer researchers Hendrik Dahlmeier and Mihika Chechi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 2Ep. 7
Moby is a musician, songwriter, author, and animal rights activist. Moby explores the intersection of making groundbreaking music, and the philosophical & ethical implications of animal rights activism, offering a profound look at how personal experiences and cultural paradigms shape our choices and advocacy. Find out more about Mo by Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executive Producer: Rachel Barrett Thanks to our volunteer researchers Hendrik Dahlmeier and...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 2Ep. 6
Richard Layard is a British Labour Economist, a member of the House of Lords, and co-editor of the World Happiness Report. Layard highlights the role of life satisfaction and wellbeing in government policy, and the importance of addressing mental health through public initiatives. He speaks to his research findings on wellbeing, including the the influence of genetic, environmental, and cultural determinants of happiness. Keep up to date with Peter on Substack Keep up to date with Kasia! Executi...
Feb 06, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 2Ep. 5
Kakenya Ntaiya is a Maasia Woman and Kenyan advocate for girls' education and women's rights. She has dedicated her life to creating lasting change both in rural communities in Kenya and across Africa. Kakenya discusses her fight against female genital mutilation (FGM), early marriage, and her quest for education. Now, as a PhD holder and the founder of Kakenya's Dream, she works tirelessly to ensure girls in her community have better opportunities and futures. Her work has modified lives for th...
Jan 30, 2025•51 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Adam Grant is an organisational psychologist and bestselling author who explores the science of motivation, generosity, rethinking, and potential. He is a leading expert on how we can find motivation and meaning, rethink assumptions, and live more generous and creative lives. In this episode, Adam Grant discusses his multifaceted life—from his earlier years as a magician to his accomplishments in academia. He shares insights into the differences between happiness and meaning, the importance of i...
Jan 23, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Holocaust survivor Edith Eger shares her emotional journey of surviving Auschwitz, her encounter with Josef Mengele, and how she became known as the 'Ballerina of Auschwitz.' Edith highlights the slow, evolving process of coming to terms with her past, influenced by Viktor Frankl's work, and how she uses her traumatic experiences to help others as a psychologist, transforming trauma into a source of strength, healing, and forgiveness. Learn more about Edith Eger! Read Edith's books! The Choice (...
Jan 16, 2025•45 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Steven Pinker is a Canadian-American cognitive psychologist, linguist, and influential author, and professor in the Department of Psychology at Harvard University. Pinker’s research spans psycholinguistics, visual cognition, and the science of human behaviour. He is a proponent of rationality, evidence-based thinking, and the application of evolutionary psychology to understand human nature. Pinker is frequently cited as one of the most influential thinkers of his time. Peter & Kasia engage ...
Jan 09, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Charlie Bresler is in conversation with Peter & Kasia on his his late entrance into the nonprofit sector and subsequent journey to co-founding 'The Life You Can Save' with Peter Singer, which has raised over $100 million to alleviate extreme poverty. Bresler emphasises the importance of giving effectively, feeling good about altruistic actions, and the impact of select nonprofits in moving substantial funds toward effective organisations. If you are interested in donating this giving season,...
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 22
In this final episode of the first season of Lives Well Lived, Peter & Kasia interview acclaimed author Joyce Carol Oates about her prolific career and perspectives on writing and life. Joyce Carol Oates was born during the Depression in Lockport, New York. Oates published her first book in 1963 as a teen, and has since published 58 novels, many of them portraying the darkness of American society. Her writing has earned her virtually every major American literary prize, and she has been a fi...
Oct 03, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 21
Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD, is among the top 0.1% most cited scientists in the world for her revolutionary research in psychology and neuroscience. She is a University Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University. She also holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is Chief Science Officer for the Center for Law, Brain & Behaviour. In addition to academic work, Barrett has written two science books for the public, How Emotion...
Sep 26, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Murali Doraiswamy is Professor of Psychiatry and Professor in Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine where he is a physician scientist at the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences. This conversation explores the complex definitions and criteria for diagnosing mental illness and its prevalence worldwide. Prof Doraiswamy discusses contributing factors such as economic instability, cultural differences, and the impact of social media on mental health. Peter & Kasia discuss the role of psych...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Sam Harris is an American philosopher, neuroscientist, author, and host of Making Sense. Peter and Kasia are in-conversation with Sam on spirituality, consciousness, ethical living, and the fear of death. Sam begins by examining his profound ethical realisations under the effects of MDMA, leading to a pursuit of understanding consciousness via meditation and philosophy. The dialogue covers the contrasts between psychedelic experiences and meditation, the illusion of self, and the ethical implica...
Sep 12, 2024•1 hr 34 min•Season 1Ep. 18
