Prodigy
Why do we do the things we do? Lowell Brillante investigates the complex details of our minds - from psychopathology to excellence, nature to nurture. We've sequenced the human genome and explored Mars, but we still don't really understand how our brains work. Join Lowell as he talks to leading experts about what we know and don't know about our minds.
Episodes
House Hacking
Even if you think you can't afford it, there are ways to buy a home and leverage it as an investment. Real Estate prodigy Skylar Brillante drops by to drop some knowledge on me. He explains how investors do things, how to buy a house and what your options are if you already own a home.Skylar Brillante - IG - @skylarbrillanteEpisode Websitehttps://www.prodigypodcast.com/episodes/house-hackingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30/09/22•20m 36s
A Stroke of Insight
A DNA test sends me down the rabbit hole of ancestry until I’m stuck with a dilemma that could change my life. I don’t remember my grandparents. When their stories were told it meant nothing to me. A DNA test inspires me to discover my ancestry for myself until a sudden event changes my trajectory and presents a life-altering dilemma. What would you do with a 30-year head start? If you like this episode, check out more from the 22 other creators who are also part of this journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
05/05/22•31m 41s
Part 1: The Polgar Sisters
Can prodigies be created with early specialization? Laszlo Polgar was an educational psychologist who believed they could. He experimented with his own children and the results were fascinating. This is Part 1 of a re-release of the first 3 Prodigy episodes. They are meant to be listened to together as they cover the argument of nature vs nurture as related to performance. Created, produced and hosted by Lowell BrillanteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/04/22•33m 50s
Part 2: The 10,000 Hour Rule
Is elite performance just a matter of how much and how well you practice? I interview a man known as the expert on experts, Dr Anders Ericsson and discuss the controversy surrounding Deliberate Practice. Learn about how we learn in this episode of Prodigy. This is Part 2 of a re-release of the first 3 Prodigy episodes. They are meant to be listened to together as they cover the argument of nature vs nurture as related to performance. Created, produced and hosted by Lowell BrillanteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/04/22•35m 40s
Part 3: The Source Code
Every human being shares a 99.9% identical DNA code. It's that .1% that makes us unique. We could see the influence of genetics before we unlocked it, but now that we've learned how to measure those differences, the knowledge could be dangerous. This is Part 3 of a re-release of the first 3 Prodigy episodes. They are meant to be listened to together as they cover the argument of nature vs nurture as related to performance. Created, produced and hosted by Lowell BrillanteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/04/22•35m 23s
The Dark Forest
In 2017 the New York Times released an article disclosing 3 videos taken by US Navy pilots of unidentified aerial phenomenon. Is intelligent life already here... or is there another explanation?I spoke with a man who believes he was abducted by "the greys" in order to father a race of hybrids. This was confirmed by one of his indirect descendants, Bashar, a contact specialist from the planet Essassani who is being channeled by Daryl Anka. According to Bashar we are all a facet of the multi-dimensional crystal.Physicist Daniel Whiteson explains quantum entanglement and how we could bend space to achieve faster than light travel. Toby Ball describes how alien abductions entered our folklore and Mick West provides context for the recent sightings. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
03/01/22•50m 5s
Festivus for the Rest of Us
It's been another crazy year. So time for another holiday episode on gift giving. I'm joined by Dr. Mary Eberhardinger who adapted her award winning PhD dissertation into a book about the rhetoric and philosophy of gifts. This conversation is holiday casual so grab a drink and get ready for the airing of grievances.-A Rhetoric and Philosophy of Gifts(To get the discount, use code LEX30AUTH21 when ordering)LinkedinFacebook(If you're wondering what festivus is, it's from seinfeld season 9, episode 10) Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/12/21•22m 56s
Cybersecurity and the Internet of Things
Nobody wants to be hacked through their toaster. Or even worse, their toaster joining an army of toasters that attack critical infrastructure and send me 50 spam emails a day. The Internet of Things is the idea that any device connected to electricity will eventually be connected to the internet. It's super cool and super frightening at the same time. When researchers report these vulnerabilities to companies they're often ignored and sometimes even retaliated against. Will our defenses catch up to our technology or are we all just f****d? This episode includes expert insight from Jack Rhysider, Craig Young and Beau Woods.Episodes I mention of Jack's show Darknet Diaries:Episode 21 - Black Duck EggsEpisode 45 XBox UndergroundEpisode 60 - dawgygEpisode 99 - The Spy Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
19/10/21•39m 0s
Time Management
Time is democratic. We all have the same amount of hours in a week. Laura Vanderkam studied how the most successful people allocate their time and shares it with you! She also has 2 podcasts. The one I produce is called Before Breakfast and it's jam packed with useful information. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/09/21•27m 21s
ADHD not about Privileged White Dudes
This episode is fun and packed with tips for living with ADHD. I got influencer, streamer, and podcaster Catieosaurus on to explain what it's like to be a gifted, non-privileged white dude with ADHD and some tips for living with it. She shared actionable advice and even info about neurodiversity in the kink community so buckle up.Oh and I mention my dog licking her paw a couple times. She doesn't have an allergy. She was licking various parts and I just said foot twice. She's my baby and I take better care of her than I do myself! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/08/21•49m 26s
Are Chiropractors legitimate?
Chiropractic was born out of holistic mysticism from the magnetic healer D.D. Palmer. Is there any value in it or is it complete bulls**t? I spoke with Dr Jeff Langmaid, a credible and evidence based chiropractor about how he approaches treatment. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
05/08/21•43m 41s
How to Money
Is it better to spend your energy saving money or investing in making more? I spoke with Joel and Matt, the finance guys from the How to Money Podcast. They have some excellent advice on how to make your money work for you and live rich on less money. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/07/21•44m 26s
Algorithm Episode Drop: 1 | Afrikka Didn't Need to Die
When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random. But it wasn’t. It was part of a pattern.Lori Townsend reminisces about her daughter Afrikka, and journalist Thomas Hargrove says Afrikka's death could've been prevented.Subscribe to Algorithm now, so you don't miss an episode, and follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter for more information about the case. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/07/21•38m 38s
The Algorithm
I spoke with Ben Kuebrich, the producer and host of the new true crime show Algorithm. Algorithm follows the investigation into Afrikka Hardy's murder, exposing the warnings that police ignored, and uncovering more than anyone expected -- that a serial killer was strangling women in Gary, Indiana could've been stopped. And that Afrikka Hardy should be alive today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20/07/21•25m 17s
The Undiagnosed
How many people are living their life undiagnosed? This episode is about ADHD but the message is about disorders. The barriers that exist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment are criminal, and it's time we address them. I spoke with Dr Jeremy Sharp, a psychologist, consultant and speaker about ADHD and the process of getting diagnosed. You'll also hear from Lesly Quiambao. She got diagnosed after my last episode and explains what the process was like. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
14/07/21•43m 25s
Psychedelics
LSD and psilocybin aka magic mushrooms are gaining in popularity for the therapeutic benefits, especially using the technique of microdosing. I spoke with E.S. Fein from the lucid dreaming episode about the benefits of psychedelics.Disclaimer: this episode discusses the use of substances that are currently illegal in most states and may not be appropriate for children. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
09/07/21•35m 9s
Body and Brain
A psychosomatic disorder or illness refers to one that is caused by stress and emotions. Can stress actually cause severe, chronic pain? I spoke with Dr David Hanscom, a former orthopedic surgeon who quit his practice after 32 years to teach people why back surgery is usually not the answer. You'll also hear from a special guest... my dad. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
07/07/21•35m 37s
Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming is a state of consciousness where a person is aware they're dreaming. This gives them a level of control over it. With practice you can increase this ability and explore your greatest fantasies. I spoke with E.S. Fein. An author and lucid dreaming expert who teaches us all about lucid dreaming and how to do it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/06/21•38m 27s
Sex, Status and Stuff
We've all encountered at least one narcissist in our lives. They make up 2% of the population. They're typically extroverted and charming. It's not until you've been used and thrown away that you realize their priority is sex, status and stuff. It's all about appearances.But there's actually multiple types of narcissists. Professor W. Keith Campbell is a psychologist on the forefront of psychopathology research. He explains what our current understanding of narcissistic personality disorder is. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23/06/21•45m 35s
Penetration Testing
With an onslaught of ransomware attacks disrupting our supply chains, cybersecurity is more important than ever before. The best way to strengthen your defenses is to hire hackers to discover your weaknesses. I spoke with veteran pen tester and owner of Black Hills Information Security, John Strand about the industry, how to get into it and more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
16/06/21•28m 53s
Hacking Humans
The days of robbing banks at gunpoint are gone. It's much more profitable to hijack networks. To better protect themselves companies hire people to test their security, but no firewall is going to stop a social engineer. Especially not one like Chris Hadnagy. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
09/06/21•43m 15s
Introducing: Prodigy Season 2
One of the most fascinating and unknown fields of science is human psychology. In this season of Prodigy we'll cover interesting topics like human hacking, lucid dreaming, penetration testing, narcissism and a lot more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
02/06/21•2m 50s
The 50 Year Vaccine
There's a lot of misinformation going around about a "brand new" vaccine, but mRNA vaccines have been worked on since the 1970's. Luckily they were perfected just in time for the biggest crisis in modern history. Learn about how mRNA vaccines work and what one dedicated pediatrician has gone through in order to administer it to her community. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23/04/21•17m 17s
The Legend of Speedrunners
Speedrunners are gamers that want to beat a game as fast as possible, but it isn’t just about speed. It’s about love. It’s about obsession... over all the ins and outs of a game, down to the very programming.Alex Cardinale@alexc_journalsWeldon Greenhttps://twitter.com/mindgamesweldon?lang=enEric Zimmermanhttp://www.ericzimmerman.com/DannyBhttps://www.twitch.tv/dannybhttps://www.youtube.com/c/dannyb21892https://twitter.com/dannyb21892Chaos Drifterhttps://www.twitch.tv/chaosdrifterBeefChiefhttps://www.twitch.tv/beefchief33 Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
28/02/21•38m 12s
Violet Violins
Conversation with Alex Rivers, a professional busker and late bloomer trying to make a name for himself as a violinist. I also spoke with Noel Brown, an executive producer, podcast host and musician whose father forced him to learn violin at an early age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
06/02/21•29m 41s
Joshua Bell the Violin Virtuoso
Joshua Bell debuted with the Philadelphia Orchestra at 14. Since then he's received a ton of awards and played with nearly every major orchestra in the world. His performance radiates emotion and rings with precision as the notes from his legendary Gibson Ex-Huberman Stradivarius spin through the halls. Joshua gives us an inside look at his upbringing, the story behind his violin, the washington post experiment, how he practices, his favorite composers and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30/01/21•37m 27s
ADHD and Me
I was diagnosed with ADHD at 35 years old. I describe my experience, the testing and the disorder. I also speak with a student with ADHD and Dr Gail Saltz about medication. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
22/01/21•28m 54s
Synesthetes and Seekers
Synesthesia is a connection between senses. It could be the key to understanding brilliance. Most people are born with it, but in a few rare cases people have acquired it after a traumatic brain injury. We'll also cover the neurodiversity of autism with Dr Simon Baron-Cohen. For resources and show notes visit the website. https://www.prodigypodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15/01/21•27m 36s
The Versatile Von Neumann
John von Neumann made major contributions to multiple fields including computers, physics, mathematics, economics and statistics. He helped design the atomic bomb, created game theory, provided the architecture for the modern computer, pioneered the concept of mutually assured destruction and developed the foundation for quantum physics. Daniel Whiteson, particle physicist and host of the show Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe, joins us to describe the significance of von Neumann's work. For more about his life, Stuff you Missed in History Class did an excellent episode on him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
08/01/21•31m 10s
The Unabomber
Ted Kaczynski had a higher IQ than Einstein and used the postal service to deliver handmade bombs to targets over the course of a 17 year long domestic terrorism campaign. It became the longest and most expensive manhunt in FBI history. The question is not what he did, but why... This episode was written by Gabe LuzierSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
01/01/21•41m 15s
Gifts and Gambits
Learn about the queen’s gambit opening strategy, the indian defense and Paul Morphy. Also the psychology of gift giving with Dr. Jeff Galak, a marketing professor at Carnegie Mellon who studies consumer behavior and runs the youtube channel Data Demystified. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24/12/20•23m 8s
The Source Code
Every human being shares a 99.9% identical DNA code. It's that .1% that makes us unique. We could see the influence of genetics before we unlocked it, but now that we've learned how to measure those differences, the knowledge could be dangerous. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18/12/20•35m 23s
The Origins of Expert Performance
Is elite performance just a matter of how much and how well you practice? I interview a man known as the expert on experts, Dr Anders Ericsson and discuss the controversy surrounding Deliberate Practice. Learn about how we learn in this episode of Prodigy. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/12/20•35m 40s
The Polgar Sisters
Can prodigies be created with early specialization? Laszlo Polgar was an educational psychologist who believed they could. He experimented with his own children and the results were fascinating. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
03/12/20•33m 50s
Introducing: Prodigy
Prodigy examines questions about our psychology and performance. For example: What determines our behavior, environment or genetics and how can we measure their effects? What are personality disorders and how do they influence the way our minds work? Why do accidental savants exist and can we recreate them? What is the psychology of gift giving?Hosted by Lowell Brillante who interviews more than 30 academics to get a better understanding of intelligence. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29/07/20•1m 54s