In this episode, we discuss some recent films they have enjoyed and how they contrast with other films that did not meet past expectations. We start the discussion with Top Gun: Maverick and why that film feels like a breath of fresh air compared to other sequels. So many sequels over the last decade lack the essence of what made the originals massive successes that have shaped our culture.

In this podcast, I catch up with my friend Joe Jackowski. We reminisce about old times before discussing psychology topics. We share two podcasts that have influenced our thinking: Sarah Hallberg on Peter Attia's podcast and Yeonmi Park on Jordan Peterson's podcast.

May 4 is the day Star Wars nerds rejoice! “May the fourth be with you” in pop culture is the holiday that we all celebrate the impact the galaxy far, far away has on so many of us. At the core of the hero's reimagined journey is a phrase first spoken by Obi-Wan: “May the Force Be With You.” Hearing this phrase for the first time is a bit cheesy. But once you have a deeper understanding of the broader context, it connects you to an in-group. Think about it this way: A phrase has now morphed into a play on words to be celebrated on the day.

Let's rewind time to the 1970s, before George Lucas or anyone else knew what Star Wars would become.

This conversation starts with a discussion opening of American football season.  From sports, we enter into a conversation around music, touching on the artists we enjoy or who have impacted us.

We close with a discussion about storytelling. We mostly centered around impactful films like The Matrix, Harry Potter, and Star Wars. We talk about what makes characters compelling. Why do we enjoy characters with nuance and flaws more than black and white?