SPOS #958 – Greg Epstein On How Technology Became Religion

Welcome to episode #963 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Daniel J. Levitin is a polymath whose career defies categorization - a neuroscientist, musician, and New York Times bestselling author, he seamlessly blends the scientific with the soulful. As a professor and researcher, his work has illuminated the deep connections between music, the brain, health, and creativity, with his insights gracing publications from Nature and Science to Rolling Stone and The Atlantic. Dan has not only revolutionized how we think about music through seminal works like This Is Your Brain On Music but also through his consultations with tech giants like Apple and Microsoft and his collaborations with legendary musicians like Joni Mitchell and Sting. In our conversation, Dan shares insights from his latest book, I Heard There Was a Secret Chord - Music As Medicine, a fascinating exploration of music’s unique ability to heal and connect us. We discussed everything from the evolutionary roots of music to its capacity to transform physical and emotional health. He explained the brain’s innate response to rhythm and melody, unpacking why music compels us to move and how it serves as one of humanity’s oldest forms of therapy. The dialogue also touched on the neuroscience of creativity, the serendipity of success in the music industry (and business), and the evolving role of music in the streaming age. His work reminds us that music isn’t just entertainment - it’s a vital force that shapes who we are and how we connect with the world. If you’ve ever wondered why a particular song brings you to tears or makes you tap your foot uncontrollably, this episode will resonate deeply. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:08:01. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Daniel J. Levitin. I Heard There Was a Secret Chord - Music As Medicine. This Is Your Brain On Music. Dan’s music. Dan’s research. Follow Dan on X. Follow Dan on Instagram. Follow Dan on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Dr. Daniel J. Levitin. (02:52) - The Connection Between Music and Movement. (06:12) - The Evolution of Music and Speech. (09:05) - The Role of Taste in Music Discovery. (11:58) - Luck vs. Skill in Music Success. (14:49) - The Complexity of Musical Originality. (18:06) - Creativity Across Cultures. (20:48) - The Evolution of Artists and Their Music. (31:09) - The Emotional Power of Music. (34:55) - The Evolution of Musical Taste. (39:42) - Songwriting and Personal Expression. (44:05) - Music as Medicine. (50:12) - The Impact of Streaming on Music Consumption. (56:45) - Lessons from Live Performance.

Welcome to episode #962 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Richard Cytowic is a neurologist, neuropsychologist, and a creative force who brought the enigmatic phenomenon of synesthesia back into scientific discourse after decades of dismissal, earning him international acclaim and cementing his place as a pioneer in neuroscience. Currently a Clinical Professor of Neurology at George Washington University, Richard has authored multiple groundbreaking books, including The Man Who Tasted Shapes, which won The Montaigne Medal, and has been the subject of three BBC documentaries. His work has influenced fields ranging from psychology to the arts, with speaking engagements at prestigious institutions like NASA, the Smithsonian, and the Library of Congress. In our conversation, Richard explored the themes of his latest book, Your Stone Age Brain In The Screen Age - Coping With Digital Distraction And Sensory Overload, an examination of why our prehistoric brains are ill-equipped for the constant bombardment of modern technology. Richard's unique lens - a fusion of neurological insight and storytelling - reveals how our brains, still operating on Stone Age instincts, are no match for the addictive design of our devices. He explains the science behind behaviors many of us dismiss, such as our inability to put down our phones or stop scrolling, linking these behaviors to the brain's limited bandwidth and the mechanics of positive intermittent reinforcement (think slot machines in your pocket). As someone who helped reintroduce synesthesia to mainstream science, Richard also connects these findings to larger societal implications, questioning how technology influences not only our attention but also our ability to interact meaningfully with others. Richard’s deep dives into the science of human attention, working memory, and our psychological relationship with technology offer practical wisdom and fascinating insights. If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to put your phone down - or how we can reclaim our focus and connection in the digital age - this is for you. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:02:58. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Richard Cytowic. Your Stone Age Brain In The Screen Age - Coping With Digital Distraction And Sensory Overload. The Man Who Tasted Shapes. Synesthesia. Richard’s columns for Psychology Today. Follow Richard on X. Follow Richard on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Synesthesia. (11:46) - The Impact of Screens on Our Brains. (25:14) - Understanding Attention and Energy. (39:45) - Navigating Digital Addiction. (55:50) - The Future of AI and Human Interaction.

Welcome to episode #961 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Sandra Matz is one of those rare individuals who sits at the intersection of academic rigor and cultural relevance. As a computational social scientist with a background in psychology and computer science, Sandra studies human behavior by uncovering the hidden relationships between our digital lives and our psychology. Her goal is to make data relatable, and help individuals and businesses make better and more ethical decisions. As the David W. Zalaznick Associate Professor of Business at Columbia Business School, Sandra has dedicated her career to understanding the hidden connections between human behavior and the data trails we leave behind. Over the last 10 years, she has published over 50 academic papers in the world’s leading peer review journals. In her new book, Mindmasters - The Data-Driven Science Of Predicting And Changing Human Behavior, Sandra dives into how big data is not just a tool for understanding us but also for influencing our decisions - sometimes in ways that are empowering, other times in ways that are downright chilling. As someone who has always been fascinated by the promise and perils of technology, this conversation hit close to home. Sandra’s perspective is nuanced: she’s as much a champion of the transformative potential of algorithms in areas like mental health and financial well-being as she is a critic of their misuse for manipulation. Our conversation ranges from her conflicted feelings about the power of psychological targeting to her hope that these tools can help individuals lead happier, more balanced lives. What struck me most was her candor about the fine line between helpful nudges and invasive manipulation. Sandra is not just theorizing about these issues; she’s actively shaping the conversation around them. If you’re grappling with questions about the role of AI and algorithms in our lives - whether as a force for good or something we need to be deeply wary of - this episode will give you plenty to think about. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:04:51. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Sandra Matz. Mindmasters - The Data-Driven Science Of Predicting And Changing Human Behavior. Follow Sandra on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Computational Social Science. (03:00) - The Conflict of Technology and Psychology. (06:13) - Understanding Psychological Targeting. (08:58) - The Intimacy Economy vs. The Attention Economy. (11:52) - The Dangers of Data Privacy. (15:09) - The Impact of Google Searches on Personal Life. (17:56) - Mass Surveillance and Data Collection. (20:57) - The Role of Regulation in Data Privacy. (24:07) - The Algorithmic Accountability. (26:49) - Synthetic Data and Its Implications. (30:09) - The Future of AI and Human Creativity. (33:01) - The Role of Algorithms in Society. (36:08) - The Importance of Perspective in AI. (41:59) - The Challenge of Transparency in Algorithms. (44:46) - Grassroots Movements and Algorithm Accountability. (47:46) - The Future of AI and Human Interaction. (51:05) - Conclusion and Reflections on Technology.

Welcome to episode #960 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. It’s not every day you get to sit down with someone who has shaped your professional life in such a profound way. I’ve known Seth Godin for nearly two decades. While I wouldn’t say we’re the kind of friends who text each other about weekend plans, there’s a kinship that comes from two people who respect the craft of ideas, the power of language, and the art of making things better for others. Over the years, Seth has been a generous mentor - not in a formal sense, but in the way his words, books, and insights have seeped into the cracks of my thinking, slowly but surely changing how I approach my own work. Seth’s latest book, This Is Strategy - Make Better Plans (Create a Strategy to Elevate Your Career, Community & Life), feels like a culmination of his ethos. If you’ve read his work before, you know his magic lies in making the complicated feel clear, the overwhelming feel doable, and the intimidating feel… well, fun. This book is no different. It’s a map, not just for businesses trying to navigate a tricky economy or professionals angling for that next promotion, but for anyone looking to build something meaningful - whether it’s a company, a community, or a life. And here’s the thing: Seth doesn’t just teach strategy; he lives it. From the outside, it might seem like his career has been one unbroken string of successes - best-selling books, a groundbreaking blog, iconic projects like The Marketing Seminar and altMBA. But what he really teaches us, and what I’ve seen firsthand, is that strategy is about persistence, adaptability, and the willingness to say, “I made this,” even when you’re not sure how it will land. In this conversation, we went deep into not just the mechanics of strategy but the mindset behind it. Seth has this uncanny ability to get you to question your assumptions while making you feel like you’re capable of anything. It’s a rare kind of mentoring, and I think you’ll feel it too when you listen to this episode. So, if you’re someone who’s wrestling with what’s next - whether it’s a project, a career move, or just a better way to spend your days - I hope you’ll carve out some time for this one. Seth has this way of reminding you that strategy isn’t about being clever; it’s about being clear. And clarity? That’s something we could all use more of. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:03:00. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Seth Godin. This Is Strategy - Make Better Plans (Create a Strategy to Elevate Your Career, Community & Life). Seth’s Blog. All things Seth. Follow Seth on X. Follow Seth on Instagram. Follow Seth on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - The Journey of Influence. (02:59) - Navigating Public Speaking. (06:09) - The Impact of AI on Culture. (08:47) - Understanding Intimacy in the Digital Age. (11:59) - The Essence of Strategy. (14:50) - The Role of Story in Strategy. (17:56) - Status and Affiliation in Marketing. (20:55) - The Philosophy of Strategy. (23:59) - Empathy and Systems Change. (27:06) - The Power of Nostalgia. (29:59) - The Future of Work and Culture. (33:00) - The Role of News in Our Lives, (36:11) - Recommendations and Reflections.

Welcome to episode #959 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Dr. Rebecca Homkes is a high-growth strategy specialist who has dedicated her career to helping CEOs and executive teams navigate growth and uncertainty. As the founder of her own boutique consultancy firm, she advises some of the world's leading organizations on how to thrive in challenging economic landscapes. Rebecca is a Lecturer at the London Business School's Department of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, faculty at Duke Corporate Executive Education, and an advisor and faculty member at Boston Consulting Group University. Her rich academic background includes directing the joint McKinsey & Co and LSE Centre for Economic Performance Global Management Project, and her writings have been featured in publications like the Harvard Business Review, Businessweek, Fortune, and Forbes. In this conversation, Rebecca delves into the intricacies of formulating effective growth strategies amidst economic uncertainty. She emphasizes that true entrepreneurs can find growth opportunities in any market situation. While organizations often excel at short-term and long-term planning, Rebecca points out that many struggle with midterm strategies - a critical gap that needs addressing. She introduces her framework, Survive, Reset, Thrive (also the name of her recently published book), which serves as a roadmap for organizations to navigate uncertainty and build a sustainable right to win. Rebecca highlights the importance of internal predictability, suggesting that organizations with stable internal processes are better equipped to adapt swiftly to external changes. She also discusses how speed, when aligned with clear direction, can serve as a competitive advantage in today's fast-paced business environment. We debate the future of work, where Rebecca anticipates a potential renaissance in trades as industries evolve. She underscores the necessity of continuous learning and capability-building, urging organizations to invest in their people's development alongside their strategic initiatives. Rebecca's insights offer valuable guidance for leaders seeking to navigate growth amid uncertainty and provides thoughtful approaches to thriving in today's complex business landscape. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:06:47. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dr. Rebecca Homkes. Survive, Reset, Thrive. Follow Rebecca on X. Follow Rebecca on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Growth Strategies. (03:00) - Navigating Economic Uncertainty. (06:01) - The Role of CEO Tenure in Strategy. (09:01) - Midterm Growth Strategies. (12:02) - Understanding the Right to Win. (14:51) - Building Loyalty Lock-In. (18:06) - Survive, Reset, Thrive Framework. (21:01) - The Impact of AI on Business. (23:58) - The Challenge of Acting to Shape. (27:07) - The Future of Work and Skills. (29:50) - The Importance of Internal Predictability. (33:06) - Speed vs. Direction in Strategy. (36:13) - Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned.

Welcome to episode #958 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Greg Epstein is not your average chaplain. As the Humanist Chaplain at both Harvard University and MIT, Greg bridges the gap between spirituality and secular life, offering a unique perspective that resonates deeply in today’s rapidly evolving world. With a rich background that spans philosophy, ethics, and humanism, Greg has become a beacon for those seeking meaning beyond traditional religious frameworks. In this conversation, Greg dives into his new book, Tech Agnostic - How Technology Became The World’s Most Powerful Religion, And Why It Desperately Needs A Reformation (his first book is: Good Without God - What A Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe). Picture this: technology has ascended to the status of a global deity, worshipped and unquestioned. Greg challenges this reverence, urging us to adopt a stance of skepticism and agnosticism towards our digital overlords. He doesn’t advocate for abandoning technology but rather for a thoughtful and ethical approach to its integration into our lives. Greg draws on his extensive experience advising corporations, government agencies, and non-profits to highlight the ethical dilemmas posed by unchecked technological advancement. He likens the current tech-driven era to a modern-day religious movement, complete with its own set of beliefs, rituals, and moral codes. However, unlike traditional religions that offer community and purpose, technology often isolates us, fostering a superficial connection that lacks depth and genuine human interaction. Throughout our conversation, Greg emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and ethical accountability in shaping the future of technology. He challenges leaders and innovators to ask the tough questions: Who benefits from this technology? What are the unintended consequences? How can we ensure that advancements serve the greater good rather than narrow interests? Tech Agnostic is more than just a critique of our tech-obsessed society; it’s a call to action for a reimagined relationship with technology - one that prioritizes human values, ethical integrity, and meaningful connections. Greg’s insights are both timely and timeless, offering a roadmap for navigating the complexities of our digital age with wisdom and compassion. If you’re grappling with the pervasive influence of technology in your personal or professional life, Greg’s perspectives offer a refreshing and necessary counterbalance. His work serves as a reminder that amidst the rapid advancements and digital transformations, our humanity remains our most valuable asset. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:19. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Greg Epstein. Tech Agnostic - How Technology Became The World’s Most Powerful Religion, And Why It Desperately Needs A Reformation. Good Without God - What A Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe. Follow Greg on X. Follow Greg on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Humanism and Technology. (15:05) - The Intersection of Technology and Religion. (29:48) - Workism: The New Religion? (45:00) - AI and the Future of Human Interaction. (01:00:07) - Personal Reflections and Conclusion.

Welcome to episode #957 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Brigid Schulte is an award-winning journalist and bestselling author who has spent her career delving into the intricacies of modern life, particularly the challenges of balancing work, love, and play. With nearly 17 years at The Washington Post, where she was part of a team that won The Pulitzer Prize, Brigid has written for a myriad of publications including The Atlantic, The Guardian, Time, and Slate. Her work often focuses on the unsustainable pace of our always-on culture and the societal narratives that shape our perceptions of success and fulfillment. In this conversation, Brigid discusses her latest book, Over Work - Transforming The Daily Grind In The Quest For A Better Life (her first book was, Overwhelmed - Work, Love, And Play When No One Has Time). She explores how, despite advancements meant to make life easier, many of us feel more pressed for time than ever. The pandemic, she notes, has been a catalyst in reshaping our understanding of work and its true value. It has highlighted stark disparities between knowledge workers who can work remotely and low-wage workers who often face systemic barriers to advancement. Brigid challenges the long-held belief that longer hours equate to better work, emphasizing that this narrative is flawed and detrimental. Workers today are increasingly seeking meaningful and dignified work, and leadership plays a crucial role in shaping a culture that supports this. We delve into how technology, while disruptive, also has the potential to create new job opportunities - but only if we rethink how we value different types of work. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of modern work culture and exploring actionable ways to create a more balanced and fulfilling life, Brigid's insights are both enlightening and timely. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:17. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Brigid Schulte. Over Work - Transforming The Daily Grind In The Quest For A Better Life. Overwhelmed - Work, Love, And Play When No One Has Time. Follow Brigid on X. Follow Brigid on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Overwork and Its Context. (03:02) - The Impact of the Pandemic on Work Culture. (05:52) - The Reality of Low-Wage Work. (08:53) - The Illusion of Job Abundance. (12:00) - The Disconnect Between Work and Wages. (15:10) - The Role of Technology in Future Work. (17:53) - Rethinking Work and Value. (23:51) - The Future of Work: Possibilities and Challenges. (27:13) - The Importance of Meaningful Work. (29:56) - Cultural Perceptions of Work. (36:06) - The Role of Leadership in Work Culture. (41:58) - The Question of Economic Growth. (48:09) - Grassroots Movements for Change. (50:51) - The Power of Stories in Work Culture. (56:56) - Conclusion and Reflections on Change.

Welcome to episode #956 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Ravin Jesuthasan is a global thought leader, futurist, and bestselling author who has dedicated his career to exploring the future of work, AI, and workforce transformation. As the Senior Partner and Global Leader for Transformation Services at Mercer, he has collaborated with some of the world's most influential organizations to help them navigate the rapidly changing landscape of work. Ravin has led significant research projects for the World Economic Forum, focusing on topics like digital media's impact on society, talent strategies in the fourth industrial revolution, and redefining the value of human capital in the new world of work. In this conversation, Ravin delves into his latest book, The Skills-Powered Organization - The Journey To The Next Generation Enterprise that he co-authord with Tanuj Kapilashrami (check out his other five books). He emphasizes that as AI, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts reshape our world, there's an urgent need for organizations to transition from traditional job-based structures to skills-based models. This shift isn't just a minor adjustment - it requires rethinking how work is organized and how talent connects to it. By focusing on skills as the new currency of work, organizations can become more agile, resilient, and adaptable. Ravin shares compelling examples of how AI is already transforming industries like healthcare and financial services. As AI takes over more technical tasks, transferable skills - like empathy, creativity, and critical thinking become increasingly important. The Skills-Powered Organization serves as a practical guide for leaders looking to navigate this transition. Ravin provides a step-by-step roadmap, discussing critical organizational capabilities, the transformative changes required, and the role of AI in accelerating this journey. He also examines how this shift enables a more seamless talent ecosystem, blending various types of employee and non-employee labor. Whether you're a leader seeking to future-proof your organization or an individual aiming to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market, Ravin's insights offer valuable guidance on embracing the next generation of work. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 51:59. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Ravin Jesuthasan. The Skills-Powered Organization - The Journey To The Next Generation Enterprise. Ravin’s other books. Follow Ravin on LinkedIn. Follow Ravin on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction and Background. (02:53) - AI's Impact on Work Processes in Healthcare. (06:11) - AI's Impact on Work Processes in Financial Services. (10:08) - The Challenges of Rapid Change and Upskilling. (15:09) - The Potential Distribution of Value in the Age of AI. (18:55) - Identifying and Developing Transferable Skills. (27:58) - The Impact of AI and Automation on Work. (30:10) - The Importance of Continuous Learning. (33:04) - Challenges of Reskilling. (39:21) - Creating a Skills-Powered Organization.

Welcome to episode #955 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Michael Morris is a renowned cultural psychologist at Columbia University, where he teaches in both the Graduate School of Business and the Psychology Department. With previous teaching stints at Stanford University and a rich educational background from the University of Michigan and Brown University, Michael has dedicated his career to exploring how culture shapes the way we think, communicate, and collaborate. His research delves into the idea that while our genetic programming primes us to learn from our communities, the actual content of what we learn is deeply influenced by the cultural environments we're immersed in. In our conversation, Michael discusses his book, Tribal - How The Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Bring Us Together. He challenges the often negative connotations associated with tribalism, aiming to reclaim the term by highlighting its positive aspects. Michael explains that tribal psychology is an inherent part of human nature, encompassing instincts for solidarity, imitation, and the perpetuation of traditions. While tribalism can lead to division and conflict, he argues that these same instincts can also foster unity and collective action when harnessed constructively. We delve into real-world examples, including recent tribal conflicts and protests at institutions like Columbia Business School. Michael sheds light on why individuals engage passionately in such issues and how tradition and nostalgia play significant roles in tribal dynamics. He emphasizes that technology and social media aren't solely to blame for societal divisions - rather, these platforms amplify existing human tendencies rooted in our psychology. If you're curious about how our cultural instincts shape our interactions and how we can leverage them to bring people together, Michael's perspective provides a thoughtful and hopeful outlook. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:13. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Michael Morris. Tribal - How The Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Bring Us Together. Columbia University. Follow Michael on X. Follow Michael on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction and Background. (03:38) - Understanding Tribal Psychology. (06:01) - The Constructive and Destructive Aspects of Tribalism. (08:59) - Reclaiming the Word ‘Tribal'. (21:05) - The Role of Technology in Tribalism. (27:28) - The Potential for Collective Action and Solutions. (30:30) - Tribal Conflicts at Columbia Business School. (36:18) - The Role of Tradition and Nostalgia in Tribalism. (41:45) - Distinguishing Cults from Religions. (52:34) - The Power of Nostalgia and Conformity. (58:54) - Harnessing Tribal Psychology for Positive Outcomes.

Welcome to episode #954 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. I’ve know Dax Dasilva for close to twenty years. Dax is the creative force behind Lightspeed Commerce, a company he founded in 2005 that has grown into a leading unified POS and payments platform for ambitious entrepreneurs worldwide. Lightspeed powers some of the world's best businesses across over 100 countries, helping them accelerate growth, enhance customer experiences, and become go-to destinations in their markets. With a team of over 3,000 employees, Lightspeed has made significant strides under Dax's leadership, including going public on both the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange. After serving as Executive Chair of Lightspeed's board for two years, Dax returned as CEO in February 2024, bringing with him a renewed vision for the company's future. During our conversation, Dax delves into the evolving landscape of retail and hospitality, emphasizing how these industries are increasingly focusing on providing experiential elements that cater to people's desire for unique experiences and social interaction. He believes that while technology plays a crucial role in modern commerce, the human touch remains indispensable. Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Dax is deeply passionate about environmental conservation. He founded the Age of Union project, an initiative aimed at reconnecting people with nature and spirituality. Through this project, Dax has traveled to various parts of the world, immersing himself in different cultures and gaining a deeper understanding of social and environmental issues. He reflects on the challenges of balancing technological advancement and consumerism with sustainability and emphasizes the importance of supporting local, community-driven businesses. Our conversation also explores the current polarization in society and the impact of social media on politics. Dax expresses concern over the divisive nature of online platforms and the need for more balanced, nuanced conversations. Dax highlights the often-overlooked value of the "middle journey" in business - the day-to-day efforts and experiences that constitute the core of what companies do. He believes that true fulfillment comes from engaging in this journey rather than just focusing on the end goals. Throughout our conversation, Dax emerges as a leader who is not only focused on driving business success but also deeply committed to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and fostering meaningful human connections. His insights offer a thoughtful perspective on how businesses can navigate the complexities of today's world while remaining grounded in values that promote sustainability and community. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 54:38. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dax Dasilva. Lightspeed Commerce. Age of Union. Follow Dax on Instagram. Follow Dax on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction and Background. (03:45) - The Future of Retail and Hospitality. (05:40) - The Importance of In-Person Interactions in the Workplace. (11:12) - Reconnecting with Nature and Spirituality. (16:31) - Balancing Technology and Consumerism with Sustainability. (26:40) - The Challenges of Polarization in Society. (30:32) - The Impact of Social Media on Politics. (37:31) - The Role of AI in Business. (43:36) - The Potential Societal Impact of AI. (51:07) - The Value of the Middle Journey in Business. (54:53) - Traveling and Immersion in Local Context.