The Armen Show

In this episode, Armen speaks with legal scholar and free speech advocate Jacob Mchangama about the shifting global landscape of expression. Drawing on his new book The Future of Free Speech, Mchangama outlines a central claim: we are in the middle of a “free speech recession,” where both democratic and authoritarian systems are increasingly restricting […]

A conversation with Professor Michael Gurven of UC Santa Barbara on the evolutionary structure of human lifespan and the misconceptions surrounding aging. The central claim of Gurven’s work is that humans were not “designed” for short lives that modern medicine has recently extended. Rather, the capacity to live roughly seven decades has long been part […]

In this returning conversation, investigative journalist Carey Gillam examines how scientific evidence, corporate incentives, and regulatory systems interact in the modern agrochemical landscape. Drawing on more than three decades of reporting, she traces the evolution of glyphosate from a widely adopted agricultural tool to a focal point of global health debate. The discussion centers on […]

Bronwyn Williams discusses the concept of the ‘AI apocalypse’ and the broader technological and geopolitical shifts impacting society. The conversation explores how globalization, automation, and the concentration of wealth influence individual value, job security, and societal structures, offering practical insights for survival and adaptation.

In this episode, Dr. Caleb Scharf returns to the show, where we discuss his book The Giant Leap: Why Space Is the Next Frontier in the Evolution of Life, exploring the intersection of biology, technology, and space exploration. He argues that space travel is not merely a technological endeavor but a biological phenomenon that reflects […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian explores the shifting landscape of trust as institutions face increasing scrutiny and failure. He discusses how trust is transitioning from traditional institutions to individuals and networks, emphasizing the importance of personal integrity, competence, and the role of data in shaping perceptions of trust. The conversation delves into the implications of […]

This isn’t a recap of episodes or a list of guests. It’s a look at what became clearer over the course of 2025. Across conversations on The Armen Show this year – covering AI, psychology, culture, biology, health, systems, and creativity – the same underlying patterns kept appearing. This episode steps back to reflect on […]

In this solo episode, I dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI-driven content creation and the new possibilities it opens for creators. From image generation to quote cards, infographics, whiteboard breakdowns, and visual storytelling, the tools now available let anyone bring ideas to life in ways that were nearly impossible just a few years […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, host Armen Shirvanian is joined by economist and author Dr. Robin Hanson for a deep and wide-ranging conversation on open discourse, prediction markets, futarchy, and the evolution of culture. They begin by examining the value of figuring things out together – why true intellectual collaboration requires curiosity, humility, […]

In this episode of the Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian interviews Dr. Kaleda Denton, a post-doctoral fellow at the Santa Fe Institute. They discuss the interdisciplinary nature of the Institute, the concept of niche construction in biology, and the dynamics of decision-making, particularly the differences between following the mean versus the majority. The conversation also explores […]

In this episode of The Armen Show Podcast, host Armen Shirvanian welcomes back Dr. Brennan Spiegel to discuss his new book, ‘Pull,’ which explores the profound impact of gravity on our health and well-being. The conversation delves into the intersection of gravity, consciousness, and health, emphasizing the importance of maintaining physical resilience against the force […]

In this episode, Dr. Nayan Patel discusses his journey from pharmacy to exploring the depths of health and wellness through glutathione. He emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine, the impact of aging on health, and the role of lifestyle choices in maintaining optimal health. The conversation delves into the significance of glutathione in detoxification and […]

In this episode, Dr. Melissa A. Ilardo discusses her research on breath-hold diving populations and the genetic adaptations that allow them to thrive in extreme conditions. She emphasizes the importance of language in conducting research, the role of community engagement, and the potential therapeutic applications of her findings. The conversation also touches on the significance […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, host Armen Shirvanian discusses the evolving landscape of book writing in 2025. He emphasizes the abundance of resources and tools available to aspiring authors, including AI-assisted writing and editing, and the rise of self-publishing. Armen explores the importance of maintaining a creative flow while utilizing digital tools, and […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and creativity, discussing how to co-create with AI while maintaining the human touch. He delves into copyright issues surrounding AI-generated content, the implications of the EU AI Act, and the dual nature of AI as both a tool for enhancing creativity and a potential […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian explores the complex dynamics of status in modern life, focusing on the distinction between earned and perceived status. He discusses how social media influences our understanding of status, the costs associated with maintaining an image, and the importance of reclaiming real value in our lives. The […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian explores the practical applications of artificial intelligence in daily life, discussing how AI can enhance productivity, organization, and decision-making. He shares personal experiences and insights on using AI for tasks such as organizing files, automating document submissions, and discovering local spots. The conversation emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with […]

In this episode of the Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian discusses the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for society. He explores the dual perspectives on AI, highlighting both the concerns and the opportunities it presents Armen shares practical applications of AI that can enhance productivity and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian hosts Professors Jennifer Jacquet and Becca Franks to discuss the critical issues surrounding aquaculture, sustainability, and fish welfare. They explore the rapid expansion of aquaculture, its environmental impacts, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of the diverse species involved. The conversation highlights the gaps in research and the […]

In this episode of the Armen Show Podcast, host Armen Shirvanian welcomes Derek Sivers, a renowned author and entrepreneur. They discuss the importance of principles, the art of writing, and the significance of clarity in communication. Derek shares insights on how to prioritize opportunities, the role of luck in success, and the value of critical […]

In this episode of the Armen Show, host Armen Shirvanian explores the various ways artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can enhance everyday life. He discusses practical applications for creators, problem-solving, data visualization, and personal planning, emphasizing the importance of dialogue with AI to gain insights and improve decision-making. 00:00 Harnessing AI for […]

In this conversation, Armen Shirvanian and Dr. Sophie Scott-Brown explore the concept of anarchy, its misconceptions, and its relevance in contemporary society. They discuss the difference between anarchy and chaos, the nature of human behavior in relation to law and order, and the importance of individuality within community dynamics. Sophie emphasizes that anarchy is not […]

In this episode of The Armen Show Podcast, Dr. Sandra Matz discusses her book ‘Mind Masters’ and the intersection of psychology and data. She explores how algorithms can predict personality traits, the importance of storytelling in psychology, and the implications of data privacy. Dr. Matz emphasizes the need for systemic changes to protect individuals’ data […]

In this episode of The Armen Show Podcast, host Armen Shirvanian speaks with author Helen Chandler-Wilde about her book ‘Lost and Found,’ which explores the profound impact of losing possessions and the emotional journey that follows. Helen shares her personal experience of losing everything in a storage unit fire, discussing the significance of both practical […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian interviews Dr. Brian Jabarian, a fellow at Chicago Booth, who discusses his interdisciplinary research in economics, particularly focusing on the societal impacts of emerging technologies like AI. The conversation explores the connections between economics and philosophy, the importance of critical thinking, and the cognitive processes involved […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian reflects on the highlights of The Armen Show podcast throughout the year of 2024, discussing various themes such as travel, personal growth, beliefs, and the importance of critical thinking. He revisits conversations with guests on topics ranging from art and visual literacy to health technology and neuroscience. The episode emphasizes […]

In this conversation, Dr. Azra Raza discusses the urgent need for revolutionizing cancer detection methods, emphasizing the importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes. She highlights the challenges faced in cancer research, including the financial burdens on patients and the lack of public awareness regarding the realities of cancer treatment. Dr. Raza also introduces […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian interviews Vince Beiser, author of ‘Power Metal’, discussing the critical role of metals in the energy transition and the environmental and geopolitical implications of resource extraction. The conversation explores the increasing demand for metals like copper and lithium, the destructive practices of mining, and the dominance of China in the […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, host Armen Shirvanian engages with Professor Aziz Rana, author of The Constitutional Bind. They discuss Rana’s academic journey, the importance of writing in shaping thoughts, and the evolution of his book over time. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Constitution, particularly its reception and interpretation […]

In this episode, Armen Shirvanian engages with Professor Robert Talisse, author of Civic Solitude: Why Democracy Needs Distance. They explore the importance of reflective thinking in democracy, the role of passion in political discourse, and the dangers of social media in shaping political communication. Talisse emphasizes the need for civic solitude to foster better democratic […]

In this episode of the Armen Show podcast, host Armen Shirvanian welcomes filmmaker and actress Kat Fairaway back for her third time on the program. They discuss the evolution of acting and filmmaking, personal stories of creative fulfillment, and the importance of collaboration in the industry. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of […]

In this episode of the Armen Show, Armen Shirvanian Dr. Michael Orkin, author of “The Story of Chance”, an expert in statistics and probability, discussing the nuances of luck versus skill in games, the importance of long-term probability, and the implications of statistics in various fields such as insurance and economics. They delve into the […]

In this episode of The Armen Show, Professor Sophie Scott-Brown discusses her journey into anarchism, exploring its relevance in contemporary society. She emphasizes the importance of questioning authority, the role of individual agency, and the need for curiosity in human interactions. The conversation delves into the qualities of non-conformists, the influence of hierarchy, and the […]

How important is the link between the mind, gut, and our immunity? How does food impact the connection that these parts have? In this episode, endocrine and general surgeon Dr. Amanda Doubleday joins myself, host Armen Shirvanian, to discuss topics in relation to The Mind-Gut-Immune Connection: Understanding How Food Impacts Our Mind, Our Microbiome, and […]

In this episode, Armen interviews Philosophy Professor Gwendolyn Dolske of Cal Poly Pomona, co-host of The Good Is In The Details podcast with Rudy Salo. They discuss the importance of delving into the details and nuances of life, the joy of philosophical conversations, and the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. They also explore the […]

Returning guest Bronwyn Williams joins host Armen Shirvanian to discuss her book ‘Rescuing Our Republic’ and the specific challenges faced by South Africa. She explains the collaborative effort behind the book and how it addresses relevant issues in politics, economics, and society. One of the main themes discussed is the division and inequality in South […]

In this episode with host Armen Shirvanian, the show is joined by Professor Camilla Nord, who leads the Mental Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Cambridge, and is the author of “The Balanced Brain”, published by Princeton University Press. They discuss various topics related to mental health, neuroscience, and the brain. Camilla shares her […]

Amorina Kingdon, author of “Sing Like Fish”, joins us to discuss the impact of sound on underwater life, the differences in sound transmission in air and water, and the effects of man-made noise on marine organisms. She also explores the unique communication methods of dolphins and the challenges of studying the impact of noise on […]

In this conversation, Kyla Scanlon, author of the book “In This Economy?”, is joined by host Armen Shirvanian, and discusses the direction of society, the importance of understanding the economy, the impact of different generations on change, the role of AI, wealth inequality, financial wherewithal, the vibe economy, and the vulnerability of supply chains. She […]

Returning guest Scott H. Young is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, podcast host, computer programmer and an avid reader. In this episode, Scott discusses his new book, “Get Better at Anything: 12 Maxims for Mastery”, which focuses on the process of learning and getting better at various skills. He shares the story of Tetris […]

In this conversation, I speak with Indre Viskontas, a professor of psychology and a bridge between the worlds of art and neuroscience. We discuss the importance of creativity, the role of improvisation in opera, the impact of generative AI on creativity, and the connection between music and emotions. We also touch on the challenges of […]

Shan Rizvi and Dr. Maryam Baqir discuss their new venture, Thumos Care, an AI-powered health optimization platform. They aim to bridge the gap between the healthcare industry and the wellness industry by providing individuals with a clear understanding of their current health status and future trajectory. The platform offers personalized health analysis and recommendations based […]

On this episode of the show, I go over 8 takeaways from my completion of the 2024 LA Marathon. It was a wonderful race across the various cities of the Los Angeles area, and involved a lot of people in the race and a lot of people watching the race. All the festivity was great […]

In this episode, author Bianca Bosker discusses her book ‘Get the Picture’ and her journey into the art world. She shares her frustration with art and her rediscovery of its importance in her life. Bosker explores the evolution and universality of art, highlighting its essential role in human experience. She also discusses the unique perspective […]

Professor Cailin O’Connor is philosopher of biology and behavioral sciences, philosopher of science, and evolutionary game theorist.  She is a Professor in the Department of Logic and Philosophy of Science, and recently finished co-administering the NSF grant “Consensus, Democracy, and the Public Understanding of Science” with philosopher of physics James Owen Weatherall (previous NSF grant Social Dynamics […]

Bo Winegard obtained a PhD in social psychology from Florida State University, under the tutelage of Roy Baumeister. He was a professor at a small college in the midwest. Now, he am an independent scholar. He is interested in human evolution, human variation, the rise of political order, and political conservatism. He also loves literature, […]

“In this raw coming-of-age memoir, in the vein of The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace, The Other Wes Moore, and Someone Has Led This Child to Believe, Rob Henderson vividly recounts growing up in foster care, enlisting in the US Air Force, attending elite universities, and pioneering the concept of “luxury beliefs”—ideas and opinions that confer […]

Cecilie Traberg is a Psychology PhD Candidate at University of Cambridge in the Social Decision-Making Lab and a Storytelling Fellow at University Arts London studying how social influence, identity and interaction impacts our judgements, beliefs and behaviors. She currently focuses on how these social processes influence misinformation susceptibility and how we can increase resistance to […]

Welcome attorney Karin Lang back to the show on episode 417, bringing back the in-person discussion after a year of her travels from 2022 to 2023. On this talk, we spoke about the countries that she explored in South America, some elements of dating and relationships that are impactful, her legal work defending victims of […]

Imagination is commonly thought to be the special province of youth—the natural companion of free play and the unrestrained vistas of childhood. Then come the deadening routines and stifling regimentation of the adult world, dulling our imaginative powers. In fact, Andrew Shtulman argues, the opposite is true. Imagination is not something we inherit at birth, […]