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From makeup to merchandising: Rock legend Gene Simmons reveals the business strategy behind KISS' 50-year reign as a cultural phenomenon.
What We Discuss with Gene Simmons:According to Gene Simmons of KISS fame, pursuing wealth isn't just about personal gain but about creating value and jobs for others. Like a stone thrown into a pond, he sees wealth creation rippling outward to benefit society, even when the wealthy person might not be particularly altruistic.Gene's metamorphosis from an impoverished immigrant child who had never seen television or tasted jam into a global rock star serves as a powerful metaphor for the American Dream's transformative potential.KISS' innovative approach to band sustainability focused on building devoted fan loyalty rather than chasing hit singles, creating what Gene describes as an "album band" culture. This strategy, like planting a tree rather than picking flowers, prioritized long-term growth over immediate success.Behind the makeup and theatrical persona, Gene reveals himself to be an unexpectedly scholarly figure, displaying deep knowledge of theology, history, and business. His ability to counter religious critics with biblical verses and his understanding of entertainment industry economics show how knowledge can be wielded as both shield and sword.Gene demonstrates that reinvention is always possible through decisive action. As he puts it: "Don't like your looks? Change them. Don't like your name? Change it. Don't like where you live? Move." This philosophy of taking control of your circumstances, rather than being controlled by them, is something anyone can apply to their own life's journey, regardless of their starting point.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1092
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A $23B industry is warehousing and abusing teens under the guise of therapy. Survivor Meg Appelgate shares her harrowing story here 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 Meg Appelgate, the CEO of Unsilenced, a grassroots organization dedicated to speaking out against institutionalized child abuse in the troubled teen and youth mental health industry!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:The Troubled Teen Industry (TTI) is a vast, multi-billion dollar system that operates with minimal oversight, annually affecting 120,000-200,000 youth. Like an invisible web, it captures vulnerable teenagers through deceptive marketing and scare tactics, turning typical teenage behaviors into perceived crises that supposedly require extreme intervention.The industry's roots are deeply concerning, stemming from controversial organizations like Synanon and The Seed. These programs' techniques were so severe that a 1974 Senate report compared them to Korean War prisoner brainwashing methods — a chilling foundation that still echoes through today's practices.The long-term impact on survivors is devastating and scientifically measurable through Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scores. Like a computer virus that corrupts system files, these experiences rewire the developing brain, leading to increased risks of physical and mental health issues - from depression to chronic diseases — that can persist throughout adulthood.Despite marketing themselves as therapeutic environments, many of these programs actually traumatize youth through practices like forced isolation, inappropriate restraints, medication misuse, and severe communication restrictions. It's akin to promising a safe harbor but delivering a perfect storm of institutional abuse.Positive change is happening through growing awareness and advocacy. Organizations like Unsilenced are making concrete progress - helping shut down 90 abusive programs since 2022, supporting survivors, and pushing for legislative reform. This momentum shows that with continued effort and awareness, we can protect vulnerable youth and create safer alternatives for struggling teenagers and their families.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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Meg Appelgate at TikTok and Instagram, visit the Unsilenced website, and make sure to read... -
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When your hostile colleague starts dating a suspiciously perfect man online, do you warn her or let karma take its course? 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday:You work at a brokerage firm where your colleague "Dolores," a self-appointed office manager in her sixties, went from being your mentor to your archnemesis after you made the mistake of pointing out some of her mistakes. When she started gushing about a handsome British architect she met through an online word game, you noticed some concerning patterns. Should you have warned her that she was definitely being set up for a scam, or was it right to let karma run its course?As a rising chef, you notice something off about your new boss's behavior, particularly around tip distribution and suspicious activities at odd hours. When the tips seem inconsistent and large wads of cash appear from nowhere, you start connecting troubling dots. What dark discoveries await?You're a department manager at a supermarket when your elderly janitor calls you in for an emergency with the freezer compressors. Upon arrival, you find him nearly naked, operating the floor buffer in just his underwear, claiming "it gets hot in here." But that's just the beginning of his odd behavior...You're a court reporter at an Ohio newspaper where your editor makes bizarre demands — like covering two trials simultaneously and writing about judicial rulings before they're issued. When you point out these impossibilities, he responds with "That's no excuse!" Where does this surreal situation lead?Recommendation of the Week: Gmail keyboard shortcutsWorking under the brilliant but destructive Helga, you navigate an environment where your leader's intelligence becomes a weapon rather than a tool for growth. As she critiques every move and demands constant rewrites without clear justification, you wonder if you can endure the true cost of working under such "genius."At an addiction treatment center run on nepotism, you encounter a CEO's son-in-law COO who exhibits concerning behavior — from inappropriate touching to racist comments. When a coworker is suddenly fired for exploring other opportunities, you realize your position might be precarious...Your boss styles himself as a mix between Tony Soprano and Michael Scott, oversharing personal tragedies within minutes of meeting you. When he reveals himself to be a volatile character who demands employees "die for his company," you start planning your escape. But can you get out unscathed?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at -
Explorer Victor Vescovo shares how he engineered a sub to reach 35,000 feet below the sea and what he's discovered in Earth's deepest trenches.
What We Discuss with Victor Vescovo:Victor Vescovo led the Five Deeps expedition, becoming the first person to reach the deepest points of all five oceans. Prior to his expedition, several of these locations weren't even precisely mapped, requiring extensive sonar surveys to locate the actual deepest points.The average place on Earth is 4,000 meters underwater, and 71% of Earth is ocean — of which 75% remains completely unexplored. This means about half of our planet is still unexplored, and in many respects, we know more about the surface of Mars than our own ocean depths.The high pressures present at the deepest ocean points required innovative engineering solutions to navigate, including a perfectly spherical titanium pressure vessel that actually became stronger with repeated dives due to the intense pressure "reforging" the metal.Beneath 6,000 meters, the ocean is a sunless realm of absolute darkness. But even here, life thrives beyond the reach of light under pressure that would crush the average surface dweller, hinting at the flora and fauna we might expect to find on even the most extreme alien worlds.Anyone can become an explorer and push technological boundaries by breaking down seemingly impossible challenges into smaller, solvable problems. As Victor demonstrates, by carefully analyzing requirements, building the right team, and maintaining disciplined program management, even the most ambitious projects can be achieved through methodical execution and persistent dedication.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1089
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This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!
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From horse meat to wooden cheese, Jessica Wynn exposes the counterfeit foods that the "agromafia" criminally sneaks onto our plates this Skeptical Sunday!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:Food counterfeiting is a massive global criminal enterprise, with the "Agromafia" alone being a $16 billion-per-year industry. Criminal organizations have infiltrated every level of the food supply chain, from farming to distribution, making food fraud more profitable and less risky than traditional criminal activities.Many everyday foods are frequently counterfeited, including olive oil, honey, coffee, seafood, and spices. For example, studies found that 100% of sushi restaurants tested in New York City carried mislabeled fish, and many "extra virgin" olive oils fail authenticity tests.Food fraud isn't just about economic deception — it can pose serious health risks. Examples include melamine-tainted milk that sickened thousands of infants, nitrate-injected tuna causing food poisoning, and allergen concerns from undisclosed ingredients in counterfeit products.The global nature of our food supply chain makes regulation and enforcement extremely challenging. Products often cross multiple borders, making it difficult to track origins and enforce standards, while sophisticated criminal networks stay ahead of detection methods.Consumers can protect themselves by making informed choices: buying whole foods instead of processed ones (like whole coffee beans vs. ground coffee), purchasing from reputable suppliers, checking labels carefully, and when possible, buying directly from local producers. These simple steps can significantly reduce exposure to counterfeit foods while supporting legitimate producers.Connect with Jordan on Bluesky, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at [email protected] and let him know! Connect with Jessica Wynn at Instagram and Threads, and subscribe to her newsletter: Between the Lines!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1088
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Therapeutic journaling about an ex's job offer became relationship dynamite when your prying partner found it. What now? 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:You're suffering through the aftermath of a therapeutic journaling incident — your partner discovered your private writings about considering a business proposal from your narcissistic ex-husband. How will you navigate this breach of trust and the relationship strain it's causing?You're raising a teenager who's experimenting with alcohol, and as someone who's witnessed both the destructive power of addiction through your brother and the rigid structure of religious upbringing, you're seeking that delicate balance in parenting. What's the right approach?After dedicating three and a half years to a relationship with someone whose family dynamics are increasingly draining, you're questioning whether to stay. Her father's narcissistic behavior and constant drama are wearing you down — but is leaving the right choice?Recommendation of the Week: Temporary tattoos.You're a telecommunications professional yearning to transition into addiction recovery work after experiencing profound connections during your own recovery journey. Despite setbacks and rejections, something keeps pulling you toward this path — but what's really holding you back?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!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/1087
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Seeking fame and success can become an addiction that ruins what matters most. Stoic Ryan Holiday explains how to find sustainable contentment instead!
What We Discuss with Ryan Holiday:The hunt for fame and success can become addictive and create an insatiable desire for more, leading people to rationalize pursuing them at the expense of family time and personal well-being.The constant pursuit of growth and comparison metrics (book sales, download numbers, rankings) often detracts from the joy of doing work you love.Many successful people rationalize sacrificing time with their children by claiming it's "for the kids," when in reality it's often driven by their own ambition, ego, or insecurity.Historical perspective shows that even the most famous or successful people eventually fade from memory, suggesting that pursuing fame or status for its own sake is ultimately hollow.You can create a more fulfilling personal and professional life by focusing on doing what you love for its own sake rather than external validation. This means setting up your work to be as independent as possible from outside institutions and metrics, allowing you to maintain creative control and do things on your own terms. This approach leads to more sustainable success and greater personal satisfaction.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1086
And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!
This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!
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From Mao to Main Street: Michael Regilio unravels the surprising story behind Traditional Chinese Medicine's global rise on this week's 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:The modern global presence of TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) is largely a result of political necessity rather than proven effectiveness. Surprisingly, it had been largely abandoned in China by the 1800s until Chairman Mao revived it in the 1960s as a solution to healthcare shortages — despite not personally believing in it himself.The scientific foundation of TCM's core concepts — chi, yin/yang balance, and meridians — remains unproven. Studies attempting to validate these practices face significant challenges, including the impossibility of true double-blind trials and concerns about data reliability, particularly in Chinese research where regulators found over 80% of clinical trial data to be fabricated.Acupuncture's effectiveness appears largely tied to the placebo effect, though this shouldn't be dismissed. Studies show "sham" acupuncture (needles placed randomly) produces similar results to "real" acupuncture, suggesting the specific placement of needles according to meridian theory may be less important than the overall experience and belief in the treatment.Cupping, while popularized by athletes like Michael Phelps, essentially creates controlled tissue damage through suction. Though it may temporarily increase blood flow, it can cause permanent skin damage if done repeatedly and may aggravate existing skin conditions.Chinese herbal medicine represents a bright spot in the TCM landscape, built on 500 million years of plant evolution and chemical development. Some traditional remedies have led to breakthrough modern treatments, like Artemisinin for malaria, showing how ancient wisdom can guide modern medical discoveries when subjected to rigorous scientific testing. This suggests that while we should approach traditional practices with skepticism, we shouldn't dismiss them entirely — instead, we can use modern scientific methods to identify and develop valuable treatments from traditional knowledge.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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Michael Regilio at Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube,... -
Your sister-in-law's behavior grows more erratic while your father keeps extending lifelines. When does compassion become complicity? It's 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:Your father has been extraordinarily generous in supporting your brother and his new wife, who's displaying increasingly erratic behavior — from throwing tantrums to making unusual demands. Now she's facing legal troubles, and your father's considering bailing her out again. How do you help him see that sometimes caring means taking a step back?You're a musician who's spent decades building an independent career, and your former mentor — once supportive but now oddly competitive — seems fixated on diminishing your achievements and claiming credit for your work. He's even referenced your medical condition in a song title. How do you handle this personally hurtful dynamic on a professional level?You're torn between honoring a $40,000 tuition repayment agreement with your current employer and accepting your dream job in Europe working on climate change solutions. As you approach 30, time feels precious, but so does financial stability. What price can you put on following your dreams?Your partner demands specific, scripted responses during arguments — requiring exact word choices and precise acknowledgments of past behaviors. While charming in public, they become controlling and threatening in private. How do you distinguish between reasonable needs and manipulation?Recommendation of the Week: Sour GrapesFollowing your mother's unexpected passing, you're seeking ways to honor her remarkable 45-year journey with rheumatoid arthritis and her impact on countless lives through charity work. How can small, meaningful actions create ripples of positive change in her memory?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!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:
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Uncertainty rules modern life — from work to technology to education. Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs fame explores how embracing it might be the key to success!
What We Discuss:Humans crave certainty, which can lead us to look for patterns that aren't there and make poor decisions. Being completely certain about something often indicates a problem in our thinking.Podcasting and media have evolved significantly, with success now requiring authenticity and strong relationships rather than just technical skills. The most valuable people often bring in business through relationships rather than direct work.The student debt crisis and college costs are systemic issues that won't be solved by debt forgiveness alone — the underlying problem is that education has become too expensive while not necessarily preparing students for available jobs.Modern technology and constant connectivity can prevent us from properly processing difficult decisions and uncomfortable situations. Sometimes we need to disconnect to think clearly.Success often comes from doing the basics well: showing up on time, taking initiative, and doing the right thing when no one is looking. These fundamental work habits can put you ahead of 90% of people and are skills anyone can develop with practice.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1083
And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!
This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!
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From shelf life to shelf appeal, Jessica Wynn explores the science and psychology of food packaging on this week's Skeptical Sunday!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday:Food packaging evolved from natural containers (shells, leaves) to complex materials, fundamentally changing how we store and consume food. The industrial revolution particularly accelerated this evolution.Modern food packaging is heavily regulated, with strict requirements for nutritional labeling, ingredients lists, and safety standards. The FDA didn't mandate standardized nutrition facts panels until 1990.Package design psychology significantly influences consumer behavior — colors (red/yellow stimulate appetite), placement, and imagery affect purchasing decisions within 90 seconds of viewing.Smart packaging technology is emerging, with developments like RFID tracking and nanosensors that can detect food freshness, contamination, and proper storage conditions.Consumers can make a positive impact on this industry by supporting companies using sustainable packaging alternatives and staying informed about packaging innovations — this helps drive industry change while maintaining food safety and convenience.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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Jessica Wynn at Instagram and Threads, and subscribe to her newsletter: Between the Lines!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1082
And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!
This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!
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Co-parenting with a narcissistic ex in prison wasn't part of the plan. Now he wants phone calls with your son. What could go wrong? This is 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:You're co-parenting with your ex who is currently in prison for multiple crimes including drugs, guns, and stolen property. Your young son misses his dad and wants phone calls, but you're concerned about your ex's narcissistic tendencies and potential for retaliation. How do you protect both your son's heart and your safety?You've been a loyal employee for 11 years, but after your company was acquired, you discovered new hires are making significantly more than you. With a recent acquisition of an Indian company making everyone nervous about job security, how do you advocate for fair pay without rocking the boat?Your nephew's friend fell victim to a devastating online scam involving compromising photos, leading to tragic consequences. As these scams targeting young people become more prevalent, what can parents and communities do to prevent similar tragedies?Your fiancée bought a house without your input, following her parents' wishes rather than your shared plans. Now she wants to live alone first and might not give you space for your belongings. Is this just about the house, or is there something deeper going on?Recommendation of the Week: Portuguese Reggae MusicYou're torn between joining the Marine Corps and pursuing graduate studies in Milan, Italy. Having experienced both the military culture and European life, you're struggling to choose between duty and adventure. Which path leads to your authentic self?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!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/1081
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Technology is rewiring our brains and relationships. Dr. Alok Kanojia explains how modern conveniences make us less resilient and what we can do about it!
What We Discuss with Dr. Alok Kanojia:Technology and apps have become like an invasive species — our brains haven't evolved to handle them properly, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming relationships.Cultural conditioning that only validates male anger while dismissing other emotions results in psychological difficulties and destructive behaviors.The proliferation of convenience apps and services is diminishing our natural resilience and problem-solving abilities.Many young people struggle with purpose because external pressures and technology have drowned out their internal signals and emotional awareness.The good news is these issues can be addressed through intentional work on social skills, emotional awareness, and reducing technology dependence. Studies show even small interventions like watching educational content can improve mental health outcomes by ~10%, and more structured programs can show significant improvement in just three or four months.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1080
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This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!
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From beached whales to human heart disease, noise pollution is worse than we thought. Jessica Wynn sounds the alarm here on Skeptical Sunday!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:Noise pollution is significantly more harmful than commonly recognized, contributing to approximately 48,000 new cases of heart disease in Europe annually and ranking second only to air pollution as the most harmful environmental exposure to public health.The impact on wildlife is severe — noise pollution disrupts animal communication, breeding patterns, and navigation, particularly affecting marine life. For example, increased shipping noise has led to whale beachings and is threatening species like the Narwhal with extinction.Noise pollution disproportionately affects low-income communities, who often live near flight paths, highways, and factories, with limited options for relocation despite the serious health impacts.The US has largely abandoned federal noise control efforts since 1981 when the Reagan administration defunded the Office of Noise Abatement and Control, leaving communities without comprehensive protection against harmful noise levels.There are several effective ways individuals and communities can take action against noise pollution: supporting local noise ordinances, using quieter electric alternatives to gas-powered equipment, incorporating sound barriers in construction projects, and being mindful of our own noise contributions. Small changes in our daily habits can help create quieter, healthier environments for everyone.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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Jessica Wynn and subscribe to her newsletter: Between the Lines!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1079
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This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/dealsSign...
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The love of your life's drinking keeps derailing your plans. When does supporting become enabling and love become liability? 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:We have an update on the listener from episode 1066 whose boyfriend's ex accused him of molesting her son and his own children!You're in what feels like a dream relationship with a partner who showers you with affection, but they're struggling with alcoholism and financial dependency. You've invested in a second home banking on their renovation skills, but their sobriety keeps wavering. How do you balance love with responsibility?You're an entry-level kitchen designer dreaming of working at a full-service residential design firm. You want to reach out to prospective companies to learn what skills you need to develop, but crafting that perfect networking message feels daunting. How do you make that first impression count?At age 44, you're still grappling with the pain of your father leaving when you were 12 after getting another woman pregnant. While you love your dad and half-brother, you harbor deep resentment toward his new wife. Can old wounds ever truly heal?Your college roommate's boyfriend is moving into your building, and his behavior has always concerned you — from uncomfortable PDA to concerning power dynamics. Additionally, your friend has shared some troubling details about their relationship. How do you protect your friend while respecting boundaries?Recommendation of the Week: Inflatable Hot TubFor 40 years, you've crafted creative, personalized Christmas ornament cards that tell your family's annual story. While many cherish this tradition, some never acknowledge receiving them. Should you keep investing time and emotion into reaching out to an unresponsive void?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.Full show...
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Want to write a great screenplay? Little Miss Sunshine writer Michael Arndt shares secrets from Pixar, Hollywood, and a decade of script doctoring!
What We Discuss with Michael Arndt:Success in screenwriting often requires extreme persistence and resilience — Michael Arndt wrote 10 screenplays over 10 years before selling Little Miss Sunshine, and even then did about 100 drafts of that script before it was ready.The best stories often create a "tilted universe" where the protagonist is a response to or antidote to the negative values of their world (like Robin Hood emerging in response to an unjust system, or The Dude's laid-back nature contrasting with an aggressive world in The Big Lebowski).Audience feedback is crucial but challenging to balance — as Michael quotes Billy Wilder: "Individually they're idiots, but collectively they're a genius." You have to respect audience intelligence while still maintaining your creative vision.Great endings often work by creating a false binary (win/lose) and then revealing a surprising third option that exceeds audience expectations — like in Little Miss Sunshine where Olive neither wins nor loses but creates something entirely unexpected.Anyone can improve their storytelling by studying great stories and breaking them down systematically — Michael's own journey shows that storytelling is a craft that can be learned through careful analysis, practice, and continual refinement of understanding how stories work. His video essays on screenwriting (available on YouTube) offer concrete tools for developing these skills.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1077
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Is a $2,000 bottle of wine really better than a $20 one? Pieter Colpaert decants the truth about pricing, perception, and epic fraud 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 producer, multimedia journalist, and wine enthusiast Pieter Colpaert!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:Wine fraud is surprisingly common in the fine wine market — experts estimate that as much as 20% of fine wines could be counterfeit, especially among rare and expensive bottles. The largest case involved Rudy Kurniawan, who sold approximately $550 million worth of counterfeit wines.Wine pricing is influenced by multiple factors beyond quality, including scarcity, vineyard age, production methods, aging time, and marketing. However, studies show that beyond $50-100, you're often paying for reputation and rarity rather than significantly better quality.Scientific studies have shown that even wine experts struggle to consistently identify or rate expensive wines in blind tastings. At one Wine Spectator event, 54 experts couldn't reliably distinguish between wines ranging from $1.65 to $150 per bottle.The psychology of wine pricing has a strong effect on perception — research shows that people's brains actually respond more positively to wine when they believe it's expensive, even if it's the exact same wine. This is called the "price-quality heuristic."The good news is that excellent wines can be found in the $20-30 range. By exploring different regions, grape varieties, and styles without fixating on price, you can discover fantastic wines that suit your personal taste while staying within a reasonable budget. Trust your own preferences over marketing and pricing signals.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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Pieter at his website, Instagram, and Twitter!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1076
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Your 4-year-old convinced her 6-year-old brother to touch her inappropriately. Normal exploration or red flag for deeper issues? 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 [email protected]. Now let's dive in!
On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:You discovered your six-year-old son and four-year-old daughter engaged in concerning intimate behavior while you were away, with your daughter initiating and using manipulation tactics that seem beyond her years. What could this mean for their development, and what steps should you take? [Special thanks to licensed professional counselor and Sibling Sexual Abuse author Brad Watts for helping us with this one!]On episode 985, we heard from a listener whose mother endured years of torture from an abusive partner who kept getting released due to New York's bail reform laws, leading to a horrific incident — but is there another perspective worth considering about these controversial reforms? What do the data actually show? [Thanks to former Pittsburgh public defender Dan Eichinger for sharing his perspective!]Your brother, once successful, now lives in your mom's old apartment after losing everything to corporate fraud. He's struggling with depression while caring for his autistic son, and seems to reject all help. How can you reach someone who keeps pushing away lifelines?Your 50-person company has terrible internal communication, leaving you constantly having to chase down work and information. You've improved your own communication skills, but the company hasn't changed. Should you keep pushing for better or accept the status quo?Recommendation of the Week: Chimp CrazyGrowing up in Zimbabwe with parents who constantly fight, shame others, and display toxic behaviors, you're worried about repeating their patterns. You want to cut ties once financially independent, but can you truly break free from their influence?Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.Connect... -
From wealth transfer myths to smart career moves, NYU Professor Scott Galloway reveals how to build real financial security in today's economic landscape.
What We Discuss with Scott Galloway:The wealth transfer from Baby Boomers to younger generations ($18 trillion) is highly uneven and won't solve economic inequality. Many people will inherit nothing or even have to support their aging parents, while a small number will receive substantial inheritances, further widening the wealth gap."Follow your passion" is dangerous career advice, typically given by people who are already wealthy. Instead, focus on finding something you're good at that can provide economic security — mastery and success will lead to passion naturally.Job-hopping every two or three years often leads to higher earnings, as companies tend to undervalue existing employees and overvalue new hires. However, switching jobs too frequently (multiple times per year) can make you appear unreliable.Economic security isn't about being rich — it's about having enough resources to remove financial stress from relationships and enable focus on what truly matters. In the US specifically, this often requires being in the top 10-20 percent due to healthcare and education costs.You can dramatically improve your financial future through consistent, practical steps: save regularly, understand compound interest, diversify investments, live below your means, and start early. While it may seem slow at first, these fundamentals reliably build wealth over time and anyone can learn to implement them.And much more...Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1074
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On this Skeptical Sunday, Jessica Wynn brushes away fluoride fears and gets to the root of this controversial mineral's cavity-fighting powers!
On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, and food that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making teeth more resistant to acid. When added to water supplies at controlled levels, it has been shown to reduce cavity rates by 40-70% in children.The discovery of fluoride's benefits came from investigating "Colorado Brown Stain" in the early 1900s, where researchers found that while high fluoride levels stained teeth brown, it also made them remarkably resistant to decay. This led to research determining safe, effective fluoride levels for water supplies.Despite widespread scientific consensus on its safety and effectiveness, fluoride remains controversial, with some groups claiming health risks. However, extensive research has found no evidence linking properly fluoridated water to cancer, bone problems, or other serious health issues at recommended levels.The optimal fluoride level in water has been adjusted over time as other sources of fluoride (like toothpaste and food products) have become more common. In 2015, the US Public Health Service lowered its recommended levels, showing ongoing monitoring and adjustment of public health policies.You can take control of your dental health by understanding your local water fluoride levels (easily found on the CDC website), using fluoride toothpaste appropriately, and making informed choices about water filtration — while remembering that every $1 spent on water fluoridation saves about $38 in dental healthcare costs!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 [email protected] and let him know!Connect with Jessica Wynn and subscribe to her newsletter: Between the Lines!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1073
If you love listening to this show as much as we love making it, would you please peruse and reply to our Membership Survey here?
And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!
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