The Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish

Farnam Street, Shane Parrish

Dive into the world of insightful learning with "The Knowledge Project," hosted by Shane Parrish, the brain behind the renowned Farnam Street blog. This podcast is a treasure trove for anyone keen on improving their decision-making and understanding the mechanisms of success. Each episode features conversations with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and key figures from various fields, providing listeners with unique perspectives and actionable wisdom that can be applied to personal and professional life. Shane's skillful questioning unveils the often-overlooked details that drive success, making this podcast a must-listen for those who strive to think clearly and make better choices. "The Knowledge Project" not only explores the intricacies of human behavior and critical thinking but also delves into strategies for mental model building. By drawing on the experiences and insights of guests from diverse backgrounds, Shane fosters an environment where ideas blossom and listeners gain the tools to cultivate a richer, more informed mindset. Whether you're a lifelong learner or simply curious about the finer points of life and business, Shane Parrish offers a masterclass in learning through each meticulously curated episode.

Episodes

  • #196 Brent Beshore: Business Brilliance and Happiness at Home

    In this enlightening episode of the Knowledge Project, host Shane Parrish talks with Brent Beshore, founder and CEO of Permanent Equity. Beshore shares insights on finding value in overlooked businesses and discusses significant personal and professional changes he's implemented to enhance his quality of life and business success. The conversation begins with Beshore's philosophy on business, focusing on the value of boring yet essential industries, and transitions into personal strategies for living a more fulfilled life. The episode is rich with actionable advice on personal growth, the importance of genuine relationships, and the interplay between business prowess and personal contentment.

  • #195 Morgan Housel: Get Rich, Stay Rich

    In this insightful episode, Shane Parrish hosts Morgan Housel, who delves into the nuanced distinctions between being rich and wealthy. Housel outlines that while 'rich' may imply having enough to cover expenses, 'wealthy' suggests a level of financial independence and autonomy — emphasizing savings over spending. The conversation explores the critical mindset shifts necessary for accumulating and sustaining wealth, including the significant role of psychological factors like fear of missing out (FOMO) and societal pressures. Housel, using vivid anecdotes and personal experiences, illustrates how individual financial behaviors are heavily influenced by psychological traits rather than just strategic financial planning. The discussion also covers practical investment strategies, such as the advantages of index funds and the importance of defining one's financial goals.

  • #194 Abigail Shrier: The Parent-Therapy Trap

    In episode 194, Shane Parrish interviews Abigail Shrier, author of "Bad Therapy." They discuss the negative impact of current therapy practices and parenting styles on children’s mental health, emphasizing the over-emphasis on happiness and the cultivation of resilience through more traditional parenting methods. The conversation highlights the societal shifts towards overprotective parenting and the potential dangers of therapists replacing parental authority. They delve into how contemporary therapy can inadvertently introduce or worsen psychological symptoms by prioritizing emotional validation over practical resilience-building strategies. The episode provides a critical perspective on how modern approaches to mental health might be failing our youth.

  • #193: Dr. Jim Loehr: Change the Stories You Tell Yourself

    In this engaging episode of "The Knowledge Project," host Shane Parrish delves deep with Dr. Jim Loehr into the psychology of self-narrative. They discuss the profound impact the stories we tell ourselves have on our lives, examining how these internal dialogues shape our reality, influence our performance, and can be transformed to foster personal and professional growth. The episode covers a range of topics from the power of journaling and strategic story editing to optimizing mental and physical energy for peak performance. Dr. Loehr shares personal anecdotes and professional experiences, illustrating his points with clarity and depth, making complex psychological concepts accessible and actionable.

  • #192 David Segal: Yearly Planning, Daily Action

    In this episode, Shane Parrish talks with David Segal, co-founder of David’s Tea and Firebelly Tea. They explore Segal’s entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the psychological aspects of running a business and the role of daily habits in fostering personal and professional growth. Key themes include the impact of routine, the psychological demands of entrepreneurship, and the importance of mindfulness and self-care. Segal shares insights from his experiences, including the challenges of leaving David’s Tea and starting Firebelly Tea, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship.