
#1020 - Amy Alkon
Amy Alkon, also known as the Advice Goddess, writes a weekly advice column, Ask the Advice Goddess, which is published in over 100 newspapers within North America. Look for her new book called "Unf*ckology: A Field Guide to Living with Guts and Confidence" coming out in 2018.
Categories
Key Takeaways
Men's pursuit of status can lead to detrimental behaviors, including violence.
Understanding this can help in addressing mental health and societal issues.
Social media amplifies accountability, creating a new landscape for public discourse.
This shift can lead to both positive and negative repercussions in societal behavior.
Public outrage can lead to significant consequences for individuals and businesses.
Understanding the impact of social media and public opinion on reputation is crucial.
Engaging in respectful dialogue is essential for productive discussions.
This understanding can foster better communication and reduce conflict.
Political polarization limits constructive dialogue and understanding.
Engaging with differing opinions is essential for a healthy democratic discourse.
Watch the full episode of #1020 - Amy Alkon.
Episode Timestamps
Discussion on Gender Dynamics and Sports Culture
- The conversation explores how societal expectations affect men's behavior and mental health.
- Discussion includes the impact of social media on public perception and accountability.
- Insights on the evolutionary psychology of attraction and beauty standards are highlighted.
Discussion on Public Discourse, Accountability, and Social Behavior
- Public outrage and accountability have shifted significantly in recent years.
- Comedians face scrutiny for controversial humor, impacting their careers.
- The importance of respectful dialogue in addressing social issues is emphasized.
Discussion on Political Polarization and Mental Health Medications
- Polarization in political discourse affects how individuals view opposing perspectives.
- Mental health discussions reveal complexities around antidepressants and societal perceptions.
- Engaging with diverse viewpoints can promote understanding and reduce tribalism.
Debate on Diet and Medication in Modern Health Care
- Discussion critiques traditional dietary guidelines and promotes low carb, high fat diets.
- The speaker reflects on personal experiences with ADHD medication and its effects.
- Concerns are raised about outdated medical advice and pharmaceutical dependence.
Diet, Nutrition, and Individual Variation Explored in Health Discussion
- Dietary choices significantly impact health and nutrition, especially individual differences.
- Carnivore and low-carb diets are examined, including their effects on athletic performance.
- Cultural dietary practices can lead to health issues when transitioning to Western diets.
Exploring Exercise, Nutrition, and Weight Loss Myths
- Exercise is often misunderstood as a primary weight loss method.
- Individual differences in metabolism significantly affect weight loss outcomes.
- Nutrition misconceptions persist, impacting dietary recommendations and health advice.
Navigating Nutrition: The Complexity of Dietary Choices
- Finding a knowledgeable doctor for nutrition advice is challenging and time-consuming.
- Dietary choices involve trade-offs between health benefits and ethical considerations.
- People often misunderstand nutrition research due to biased reporting and simplistic conclusions.
The Intersection of Writing, Psychology, and Productivity
- The speaker discusses the evolution of writing advice columns and their impact.
- Importance of physical writing for memory retention and cognitive processing.
- The role of habits in overcoming procrastination and enhancing productivity.
The Importance of Walking and Scientific Understanding
- Walking can alleviate mental pressure and promote problem-solving capabilities.
- Sunscreen ingredients may harm coral reefs despite protecting human skin from cancer.
- Cultural traits can evolve and influence perceptions of beauty and health.
Debate on Racism, Privilege, and Education in Society
- Discussion on the implications of white privilege and racism in education.
- Critique of policies affecting Asian students in college admissions processes.
- Highlighting the importance of individual effort and opportunity in success.
Discussion on Gun Control and Societal Polarization
- Gun access and mental health are critical factors in mass shootings.
- Polarization around gun rights complicates finding common ground for solutions.
- Cultural and historical contexts influence perceptions of gun ownership.
People Mentioned
Cam Newton
NFL Quarterback, Professional Football Player
Kathy Griffin
Comedian
Ben Shapiro
Political Commentator
Dana Loesch
Commentator, NRA Spokesperson
Randy Nessie
Psychiatrist, Evolutionary Psychologist
Gary Taubes
Author, Journalist, Author, Researcher
Mike Eads
Doctor, Author
Stephen Finney
Dietary researcher
Dr. Sean Baker
Carnivore diet advocate
Chris Kresser
Health educator
Nina Teicholz
Author, Researcher
Dr. Mark Gordon
Expert in traumatic brain injury, Nutrition specialist
Dr. Laura
Radio host
Dehan
Researcher
Brett Weinstein
Professor, Social Commentator
Nicholas Christakis
Sociologist, Academic
Martin Luther King Jr.
Civil Rights Leader
Alonzo Boden
Comedian
Places Mentioned
Las Vegas
City
Djibouti
Location discussed in the context of the book being researched.
Montreal
Location
Great Barrier Reef
Marine Ecosystem
Evergreen State College
Educational Institution
Books Mentioned
Protein Power
Mike Eads
Good Calories, Bad Calories
Gary Taubes
The Big Fat Surprise
Nina Teicholz
Notable Quotes
"Without men, we'd still be living in grass huts."
Discussing the evolutionary role of men and societal progress
"There's getting around that. Yeah, actually really appreciate we're starting to see people look."
On evolving perceptions of sports and mental health
"Well, I mean like poorly thought like what's message holding bloody head like Jesus Christ."
Discussing the backlash against controversial artistic expressions.
"It's ridiculous odd watch play know short-sighted."
Commenting on aggressive public reactions to differing opinions.
"Ben Shapiro... he's kind guy, there's nothing wrong he's conservative."
Discussing the polarization around political figures.