#1020 - Amy Alkon

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Amy's Insights on Male Violence: A Dive into Psychology and Society

  • Discussion on Robert King's psychological research linking male mass shootings to status-seeking behaviors.
  • The observation that mass shootings predominantly involve men and implications on societal patterns.
  • Evolutionary perspectives on mate selection and how biological factors influence male-female attraction.
• 00:01:37

  The Controversy of Cam Newton: Gender Dynamics in Sports Commentary

  • Cam Newton's insensitive remark about female sports reporters receives backlash and affects sponsorship.
  • Analysis of evolving social norms and the scrutiny public figures face under modern media.
  • Connection between head trauma in football and public figures' erratic behavior, with a nod to the O.J. Simpson trial's impact.
• 00:12:32

  The Toxicity of Cancel Culture: Apologizing and Human Error with the Kaiser Pharmacy Incident

  • Discusses the consequences of cancel culture and the importance of understanding human imperfections.
  • Shares a personal anecdote about a heated encounter at Kaiser pharmacy and the subsequent apology.
  • Emphasizes the value of acknowledging one's mistakes and how it can benefit both parties involved.
• 00:21:26

  Polarization and Misunderstandings: Insights from Journalist Tony Erachsen on Political Discourse

  • Highlights the polarized political climate and the aggressive tactics of social justice warriors.
  • Introduces Tony Erachsen, a young journalist advocating for nuanced understanding in political discussions.
  • Critiques the oversimplification and generalizations made about political opponents, citing examples such as Ben Shapiro.
• 00:23:45

  Dana Loesch's Pro-Gun Rhetoric and Gun Control Controversies

  • Discussion about extreme views expressed outside the NRA headquarters, reflecting polarizing attitudes towards gun rights.
  • Dana Loesch, a prominent right-wing figure, transitions from left to right due to perceived hypocrisy within leftist politics.
  • Exploration of the complexities surrounding gun ownership debates, including mental health concerns and cultural tribalism.
• 00:30:43

  A Personal Journey Through Mental Health Medications and the Search for Effective Treatment

  • Narrative of personal experiences with antidepressants like Zoloft and Adderall and their varying effects on mental health.
  • Discussion on the misconceptions of depression as solely a medical disease, advocating for a more nuanced understanding.
  • Critique of the medical system's reliance on medications over lifestyle changes and the effectiveness of alternative approaches.
• 00:35:10

  Mike Eads Challenges Cholesterol Myths amidst Old Medical Advice

  • Speaker discusses their high cholesterol (303) and the outdated dietary advice received from Kaiser doctors.
  • Critiques the reliance on older research, specifically mentioning Ansel Keys' flawed studies from the 50s that shaped unhealthy dietary guidelines.
  • Advocates for low-carb diets based on insights from friends like Gary Taubes and Mark Sisson, promoting manageable appetite control through dietary changes.
• 00:42:03

  Transforming Diets: Personal Success Stories and Controversial Health Ideas

  • Details a personal weight loss journey and diet transformation, emphasizing meat-based consumption over carbohydrates.
  • Mentions a boyfriend who lost 30 pounds in five weeks by following a high-fat, low-carb diet with substantial results.
  • Introduces conversations about the health of indigenous diets, specifically highlighting Inuit practices and the impact of Western dietary changes.
• 00:46:29

  Dr. Sean Baker and the Carnivore Diet: A Meat-Only Approach to Health

  • Dr. Sean Baker advocates for the carnivore diet, emphasizing a diet solely based on meat for health and performance.
  • The conversation includes dietary researchers Steven Finney and Jeff Volek, who discuss the benefits of a low-carb diet for endurance athletes.
  • Critics highlight potential nutrient deficiencies associated with extreme diets and emphasize individual dietary needs.
• 00:51:20

  Controversies in Nutrition: Exercise, Diet, and Individual Responses

  • Debate over the role of exercise in weight management highlights varying individual responses to exercise and the myths surrounding calories burned.
  • The impact of genetics on body composition and dietary reactions is discussed, illustrating how different individuals process food uniquely.
  • Critique of conventional wisdom regarding fats in the diet, stating recent research contradicts long-held beliefs about cholesterol and saturated fats.
• 00:58:00

  Nina Teicholz and Gary Taubes Challenge Conventional Medical Nutrition Wisdom

  • Advocates like Nina Teicholz and Gary Taubes fight against outdated medical narratives on nutrition.
  • Many doctors lack adequate training in nutrition, impacting their ability to advise patients effectively.
  • The discussion emphasizes the need for individuals to take charge of their dietary choices based on scientific evidence rather than solely depending on healthcare providers.
• 01:04:37

  The Complexity of Nutrition: Debating Red Meat, Vegetarianism, and Evidence-Based Medicine

  • Critiques of cohort studies reveal the inadequacies of linking red meat consumption to cancer without considering dietary context.
  • The ethical motivations for vegetarianism are acknowledged, highlighting the moral complexities behind dietary choices.
  • The conversation stresses the importance of finding knowledgeable healthcare providers to navigate personalized nutrition effectively.
• 01:13:47

  Amy Elkin's Evolution from Street Advice to Science-Based Columns

  • Amy Elkin started giving free advice on the streets of New York with friends, leading to unexpected popularity.
  • She began exploring psychology, crediting figures like Albert Ellis and Aaron Beck for her understanding of cognitive behavioral therapy.
  • Her journey transitioned from casual advice to a science-based approach to writing, incorporating critical thinking and research methodologies.
• 02:23:18

  The Transformation of Advice Columns: From Personal Insight to Data-Driven Guidance

  • Elkin's advice became increasingly backed by scientific reasoning, requiring her to learn statistics and research methods.
  • She emphasized the difference between advice rooted in personal experience and advice grounded in scientific evidence.
  • Elkin encourages a smarter approach to self-help, advocating for practical strategies and realistic expectations in personal development.
• 01:13:47

  Elaine's Journey into Embodied Cognition and Mental Well-being

  • Elaine discusses her unique methods for note-taking and memorization, emphasizing the importance of physically writing notes.
  • Citing research on embodied cognition, she explains how physical actions influence mental processes and retention.
  • Elaine shares personal experiences of overcoming depression through exercise, such as biking, and stresses the significance of establishing good habits.
• 01:56:12

  Elaine's Writing Process: The Power of Small Wins and Physical Movement

  • Elaine outlines her writing methods, incorporating techniques like the Pomodoro technique and the importance of taking breaks.
  • She emphasizes the effectiveness of mild exercise, like walking, in enhancing creativity and problem-solving.
  • Elaine reflects on her unique study habits, utilizing physical movement and repeated reading to deepen her understanding of complex topics.
• 01:30:00

  Sunscreen Controversy: Amy Discusses FDA Regulations and French Anthelios with Guests

  • Amy debates the effectiveness and safety of FDA banned sunblock Mexoryl, commonly available in France.
  • She highlights differences between American and European sunscreen formulations, stressing her preference for Anthelios.
  • The conversation touches on potential health implications and environmental effects of sunscreen, particularly concerning coral reefs.
• 01:59:00

  Cultural Perspectives: Amy and Guests Delve into Racial Humor and Skin Care Myths

  • Amy observes cultural differences in perceptions of skin tone and humor, sharing personal anecdotes about racial jokes.
  • The discussion expands to include how environmental factors shape skin characteristics and historical adaptations.
  • They explore the complexities of societal norms surrounding race, humor, and beauty standards, underlining the sensitivities in modern discourse.
• 01:01:41

  Brett Weinstein's Stand Against Racism at Evergreen State College

  • Brett Weinstein opposed a controversial policy requiring white students and staff to stay home to highlight the absence of people of color.
  • Protests erupted at Evergreen State College, with Weinstein facing aggressive backlash and personal threats, showcasing the rising tensions over racial issues in academia.
  • Weinstein emphasized that the policy was inherently racist as it forced people to absent themselves based on their skin color, undermining the principles of equality.
• 01:56:12

  The Unfair Admission Practices Against Asian Students in American Universities

  • Discussion on how Asian students face higher admission standards in colleges as a result of affirmative action policies.
  • The cultural emphasis on education and hard work among Asian families is contrasted with the notion of racial discrimination in university admissions.
  • The conversation highlights the importance of addressing the underlying societal issues that inhibit the success of children from less stable backgrounds, rather than solely blaming systemic racism.
• 01:12:48

  Ben Shapiro and the Controversy Over Affirmative Action's Impact on Asian Americans

  • Discussion on the discrimination faced by Asian Americans in university admissions due to affirmative action policies.
  • Ben Shapiro emphasizes the importance of equal opportunity over equal outcomes in education and employment.
  • Criticism of social justice warriors for labeling Republicans as racist, while ignoring successful Black conservatives like Ben Carson.
• 01:19:25

  The Las Vegas Shooting: Exploring Mental Health and Gun Access

  • Examination of the Las Vegas shooting and the complexities surrounding gun access and mental health.
  • The interview with the shooter's brother raises questions about family mental health issues and societal reactions.
  • Discussion on the need for honest dialogues about gun control without resorting to extremes from either side of the political spectrum.