The DSTLLD Podcast

Blake Bottrill
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Refining Life's Ungoogleable Lessons. Interviews and insights from intellectuals and all-stars about how to live a meaningful and successful life. I save you time and effort by collecting the answers to life's messy questions.

  1. The Future Of Personal AI - Cristian Cibils Bernardes

    2025-10-20

    The Future Of Personal AI - Cristian Cibils Bernardes

    Cristian Cibils Bernardes is building something rare in tech—an AI product that helps people feel more human. In this conversation, we explore how his company, Autograph, is reimagining memory itself: weekly voice calls that become a living record of who you are, told in your own voice, so your loved ones can still ask you questions long after you’re gone. We talk about what it means to preserve identity in the age of AI, the moral line between imitation and immortality, and how storytelling can help us reconnect with the parts of ourselves we’ve forgotten. Cristian shares how Autograph is fighting against the “AI slop” era by building something deeply personal, private, and purposeful—a product that doesn’t just remember for you, but helps you remember why you matter. 00:00 - Intro00:41 - What is Autograph?04:13 - Potential Network Effects of Autograph07:51 - The Importance of Socratic Discussion10:28 - The Signal/Noise Problem13:24 - The Roadmap For Autograph20:09 - Minimum Viable Preservation21:58 - Ethics, Alignment, Slop and Driving Positive AI26:47 - Dunbar's Number and Leveraging The Knowledge of People Like You33:09 - Become The Protagonist34:42 - Cultural Drift and The Historian's Fallacy38:00 - The Lost Family Stories41:57 - Agency Through Storytelling48:13 - The Relationships Between Humans And Personified AI 52:02 - The Last Opinion Or Belief Cristian Changed His Mind About55:58 - Try Autograph

    57 min
  2. The Power Of Being Wrong - Dr. Stefani Ruper

    2025-09-10

    The Power Of Being Wrong - Dr. Stefani Ruper

    Step into the evolving world of Dr. Stefani Ruper, a philosopher who journeyed from fierce atheism to exploring faith, meaning, and the power of intellectual vulnerability. Once set on a career in science and astrobiology, Stefani found herself questioning the limits of rationalism and discovering a richer, more complex relationship with truth, belonging, and belief. In this conversation, Stefani shares how her early identity as a “rationalist” collided with the realization that dismissing the cherished beliefs of billions was its own form of arrogance. She opens up about her ongoing process of deconstructing and rebuilding worldviews, the emotional weight of aloneness, and the pursuit of safety and connection at the heart of human life. We explore her concept of intellectual vulnerability — going beyond humility to actively invite others into reshaping our ideas — and how it can transform conversations, families, and even political divides. Along the way, Stefani reveals how storytelling, curiosity, and the willingness to say “I don’t know” can soften conflict and unlock deeper meaning in our lives. Be inspired by Stefani’s radical openness, her call to celebrate not knowing, and her vision for a world where curiosity and compassion lead us closer to truth. 00:00 - Intro02:08 -  The Journey from Atheism to Faith07:49 -  The Quest For Meaning and Belonging12:12 -  Lessons from Religious Study19:25 -  Exploring Intellectual Vulnerability23:20 -  Approaching Conversations with Humility27:33 -  Intellectual Humility vs. Intellectual Vulnerability28:33 -  Rationalism and Its Limitations35:11 -  The Journey of Learning36:55 -  The Power of Storytelling41:11 -  Truth, Lies and Self Perception45:51 -  Untangling Beliefs and Self Discovery50:52 -  Frameworks for Intentional Change57:45 -  The Role of Belief in Interpersonal Relationships1:03:38 -  Embracing Uncertainty and Love1:09:23 -  The Last Thing Stefani Changed Her Mind About1:13:03 -  Where to Find Stefani

    1h 14m

  3. 2024-07-31

    How To Intentionally Design Your Life - Jennie 'Adrenajen' Milton

    Dive into the daring world of Jennie Milton as she shares her thrilling extreme sports adventures, including surviving a polar bear attack and heli-skiing in Alaska. Discover how being raised by adventurous parents and a Paralympic gold medalist brother shaped her fearless approach to life and sports. Jennie details her journey into the remote backcountry of Alaska, discussing the critical safety lessons, mindset, the value of community and continuous learning she has gained. The episode also covers her choice to live in an RV and how this minimalist lifestyle enhances mental clarity and freedom. Be inspired by the "Wind Warriors," an all-female group planning a challenging kite crossing of Greenland, and learn about the impact of climate change on winter sports. 0:00 - Introduction 1:48 - Alaska Backcountry Adventures 3:45 - The Origin Of Jennie's Passion 6:16 - From Retail to Adventure: What Lessons Did You Learn? 9:10 - Why is it Important to Stop and Enjoy the View? 9:54 - What Has Your Family Taught You About Resilience? 14:42 - Bigfoot 16:43 - How Has RV Living Changed Your Perspective on Life? 21:45 - Embracing Seasonality: What Is This Season of Life About for You? 25:20 - Who Are the Wind Warriors? 31:59 - Environment Change in Alaska Over 20 Years? 36:31 - Why is Valdez the Best Spot in Alaska for Snow Kiting? 45:22 - How Important is Community to Any Pursuit? 47:35 - What Is the Most Rewarding Part of Teaching? 51:01 - The Last Question & Where To Find Jennie Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    55 min

  4. 2024-07-24

    What If The Internet Was Pay-Per-Truth Instead Of Pay-Per-Click? - Alex Fink

    Learn how to navigate the evolving media landscape and consume news wisely with our guest, Alex Fink, founder of OtherWeb. We discuss the shift in journalism from informing to affirming biases and explore strategies to maintain information integrity amidst the democratization of news. We address the challenges of fact-checking, from the limitations of human fact-checkers to the potential of AI in improving transparency and accuracy. Alex and I share insights on using technology to stay well-informed, especially during crises, and emphasize the importance of structured news consumption. The episode also examines the effects of business models on news accuracy and the impact of narrative-driven journalism on public perception. We discuss the dangers of media bubbles, the importance of accessing diverse news sources to understand multiple viewpoints, and the influence of influencer culture. Tune in for a conversation that aims to enhance your approach to media consumption. 0:00 - Introduction 2:03 - What is PostJournalism? 3:30 - How Do We Incentivize Truth in Media? 7:23 - Combining Community and AI for Effective Fact-Checking 10:16 - Do We Have an Obligation to Be Informed Citizens? 12:30 - Personal Heuristics For Content Consumption 15:48 - Recognizing Propaganda Techniques 17:08 - What Makes OtherWeb Unique? 20:18 - Consequences of the Race for Clicks 22:52 - Does a Background in the Soviet Union Provide a Critical Thinking Advantage in Media? 24:21 - Finding Common Ground in a Divided Media Landscape 27:41 - Why Do Trusted News Sources Lose Audience Trust? 34:30 - Will Generative AI Replace Journalists? 41:04 - What Does a Post-SEO World Look Like? 43:23 - The Rise of Influencer Culture: Regression or Progression? 51:04 - Do Books Need to Be Long to Be Valuable? 53:50 - AI is Just One More Layer of Compute 55:34 - News Consumption & Gambling? 57:55 - The Last Question & Where To Find Alex Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    1h 1m

  5. 2024-07-17

    11 Alternative Health Ideas You Aren't Thinking About - Jim Laird

    Explore health and wellness from a fresh perspective with Jim Laird, who transitioned from a strength and conditioning coach in the USA to a wellness enthusiast in rural Nicaragua. Jim shares how embracing morning and evening sun, connecting with local cultures, and integrating into foreign communities reshaped his life. He highlights the importance of building meaningful relationships and engaging in local activities. Experience the simple life in Nicaragua through Jim's experiences, where a low cost of living enhances financial freedom and reduces stress. Jim discusses his motivations for moving, including seeking health freedom, access to real food, and reducing technology reliance. He stresses the importance of fundamental life aspects like quality sleep, physical exercise, and whole foods, and shares how he handles criticism and makes tough decisions for his well-being. Jim also delves into modern resilience, advocating for spending time outdoors, managing stress with low-level physical activities, and minimizing wireless device exposure. His insights emphasize the power of small, consistent actions to create positive changes. 0:00 - Introduction 1:43 - What’s the Expat Situation Like in Nicaragua? 3:43 - Integrating into a New Community 6:54 - Transitioning to a Simpler Life: Challenges and Insights 10:30 - How To You Know What You Want in Life? 14:10 - Why Choose A Simpler Life 16:02 - What Are The Pennies Of Health Improvement? 23:35 - What Are We Missing About Being in Touch with Nature? 24:41 - Is Being Overworked a Myth? 27:25 - The Paradox of Modern Workouts and Health 28:08 - What Do People Make Into Big Things That They Shouldn’t? 40:07 - What Do Most People Not Know About Vitamin D? 49:56 - How Could Jim Be Wrong? 54:40 - The Last Question & Where To Find Jim Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    58 min

  6. 2024-07-10

    How To Keep Your Identity & Kids Safe Online - Bryan Seely

    We're joined by cybersecurity expert Bryan Seely, known for his daring wiretap of the FBI and Secret Service through Google Maps manipulation. Bryan unpacks the tactics of social engineering, demonstrating how personal data like social security numbers can be easily pieced together and misused. He underscores the critical need for robust information security to protect against phishing. We delve into the essentials of strong online security, particularly for cryptocurrency users. Bryan highlights the drawbacks of phone-based two-factor authentication and recommends safer options like authenticator apps. We also discuss strategies to prevent identity theft, including the use of fictitious personal information and secure storage of recovery details, providing key advice for safeguarding digital assets and privacy. The conversation shifts to password security and the rising threat of AI in social engineering. Bryan offers tips on creating strong passwords and the risks of unverified online services. We explore the dangers of online scams, the importance of protecting personal information—especially for children—and how to identify and avoid deceptive listings. This episode delivers essential guidance from Bryan Seely on securing your digital life against various online threats. Tune in for vital insights on protecting yourself and your family online. 0:00 - Introduction 1:52 - How Safe Is Your Social Security Number? 4:46 - The Impact of Social Engineering on Hacks 6:17 - What People Are Getting Wrong About Online Safety 10:18 - Tips For Improved Online Safety 21:15 - Shibboleth and Family Passwords 27:05 - What Are the Risks of Fake Google Listings? 30:28 - The Perils Of Online Fame 35:22 - How Can Parents Protect Their Kids Online? 49:14 - How Is Google Improving Fake Listing Detection? 53:53 - The Last Question & Where To Find Bryan Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    58 min

  7. 2024-07-03

    Can Travelling Change The World? - Monica Irauzqui

    Join travel expert Monica Irauzqui as we dive into the world of personalized travel. Discover how engaging in local cultural activities can transform your trips into unforgettable experiences. Monica shares insights on customizing travel to fit different life stages, ensuring each journey aligns with your preferences and life phase. We delve into authentic travel, advocating for deep exploration of fewer places and meaningful local interactions. Monica highlights regional variations in locals' attitudes towards tourists and shares captivating stories, including ethical visits to an elephant orphanage in Southeast Asia and exploring Patagonia’s landscapes, to show how tailored itineraries enhance travel. We also explore world schooling, where families educate their children through global travel, enhancing cultural understanding. The conversation covers social dynamics across generations during travel and budget-friendly strategies. Monica offers tips on supporting local economies through initiatives like Pack for a Purpose and discusses how her travel company Yampu crafts bespoke travel plans to realize clients’ dreams. 0:00 - Introduction 1:34 - Can AI Help Personalize Your Travel Destinations? 5:21 - How Do You Maximize Experiences Based on Life Stages? 11:41 - What is The Right Pace of Travelling? 18:18 - Navigating European Travel: How to Avoid Tourist Fatigue 20:22 - The Most Underrated Travel Destinations 26:27 - How to Connect with Locals on a Budget 29:41 - Handling Different Preferences 32:10 - World Schooling and Digital Nomadism 36:53 - Why Is Traveling Essential for Young People? 42:28 - How to Make a Difference While Traveling 49:39 - The Balance of Planning and Spontaneity in Travel 51:29 - Ultimate Bucket List: What Are the Must-See Destinations for a World Trip? 56:55 - The Final Question & Where To Find Monica Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    58 min

  8. 2024-06-26

    Can You Learn Behavioural Analysis From Survivor? - The Retired Spy

    The Retired Spy, JJ Brun, joins us for an insightful discussion on intelligence and behavioral analysis based on his experiences as the first Canadian contact handler post-WWII. JJ explains how curiosity and strategic questioning can foster rapport in high-stakes environments, sharing encounters like his meeting with the self-declared mayor of Mostar to illustrate the importance of communication and connection. We explore the social dynamics of the TV show Survivor, analyzing how personality styles impact the game's outcomes. Finally, we examine the DISC model of human behavior and its applications in daily interactions, from improving interpersonal skills to enhancing leadership. This episode provides practical insights for personal and professional development. 0:00 - Introduction 1:45 - How Do You Build Trust in Social Situations? 13:43 - What Can Survivor Teach Us About Human Behavior Under Stress? 21:52 - The Four Temperament Model: Decoding Human Behavior 34:54 - How Can You Master the Art of Reading People Quickly? 50:35 - Teaching Kids the Power of Personality Awareness 58:39 - The Transformative Power of Asking, 'How Can I Be a Better Friend?' 1:08:58 - The Final Question & Where To Find JJ Let's connect! Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlakeBottrill Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dstlld

    1h 12m
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About

Refining Life's Ungoogleable Lessons. Interviews and insights from intellectuals and all-stars about how to live a meaningful and successful life. I save you time and effort by collecting the answers to life's messy questions.

Information

  • Creator
    Blake Bottrill
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Blake Bottrill
  • Show Website
    The DSTLLD Podcast