The Good Question Podcast

Richard Jacobs

Our goal is to make each of our guests exclaim: "hmmm... that's a good question. I don't know the answer." ...because when that happens, it means you, the listener, may be inspired to learn more beyond the interview and to ask great questions yourself that lead to new insights. In this podcast, we cover, Historical and current Anthropology, Comparative Religion and History

  1. 10H AGO

    Precision Longevity John Goldman On High-Performance Health & Data-Driven Medicine

    What if healthcare focused less on reacting to disease—and more on optimizing performance, energy, and long-term health? In this episode, John Goldman, Founder and CEO of Rebel Health Alliance, shares how precision medicine and advanced diagnostics are transforming the future of longevity and wellness. After struggling with chronic fatigue and brain fog himself, John became determined to address the root causes that traditional healthcare often overlooks. Through Rebel Health Alliance, he now helps executives, entrepreneurs, and athletes improve performance, extend healthspan, and build sustainable health strategies using personalized, data-driven care. In this conversation, we explore: ·       Why traditional healthcare models often fail high performers. ·       The shift from reactive medicine to proactive health optimization. ·       How biomarker tracking and advanced diagnostics personalize treatment plans. ·       What it takes to improve fitness, energy, recovery, and long-term resilience. ·       How to build a sustainable strategy for peak performance and longevity. From metabolic health and sleep optimization to strength training and preventative care, this episode offers a modern look at how personalized medicine is reshaping wellness. Follow John Goldman on Instagram @johngoldman and Rebel Health Alliance @rebelhealth_ to learn more. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    38 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Building Lovesac Shawn D. Nelson On Entrepreneurship, Failure & Creating A Lasting Brand

    What does it really take to build a company that survives decades of setbacks, reinvention, and rapid growth? In this episode, Shawn D. Nelson—Founder and CEO of Lovesac—shares the hard-earned lessons behind one of the most recognizable modern furniture brands and the journey captured in his book, Let Me Save You 25 Years. Known for revolutionizing modular furniture with Lovesac's "Sactionals" and signature beanbags, Shawn opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship: the failures, near-collapse moments, unexpected breakthroughs, and relentless persistence required to build a durable business. In this conversation, we explore: ·       How Lovesac began and evolved into a publicly traded brand. ·       The mindset required to survive long-term entrepreneurship. ·       What separates a short-term trend from a lasting company. ·       Key leadership and business lessons learned through years of adversity and growth. Blending personal stories with practical business insight, Shawn offers an honest look at what building a resilient brand actually looks like behind the scenes. To learn more about Shawn Nelson and his work, listen to the Let Me Save You 25 Years podcast. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  Keep up with Shawn D. Nelson socials here: X: https://x.com/ShawnOfLovesac  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShawnOfLovesac/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnoflovesac/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@shawnydlovesac  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnoflovesac  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    16 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Exit-Ready Ecommerce Reuben Mattinson On Tax Compliance, Valuation & Scaling For Acquisition

    What separates a scalable ecommerce business from one that's truly acquisition-ready? In this episode, Reuben Mattinson, Founder and CEO of RJM Tax Exemption, explains how tax compliance, operational structure, and financial readiness can dramatically impact business valuation and successful exits. After launching his own ecommerce business in the U.S., Reuben experienced firsthand the complexity of sales tax laws, IRS regulations, and multi-state compliance requirements. What began as a frustrating obstacle quickly evolved into RJM Tax Exemption—a global consultancy now helping thousands of ecommerce brands stay compliant, reduce risk, and prepare for long-term growth and acquisition opportunities. In this conversation, we explore: ·       Why tax compliance plays a critical role in ecommerce valuation and exit strategy. ·       Common mistakes founders make before mergers, acquisitions, or business sales. ·       Real-world examples of successful—and failed—business exits. ·       How operational readiness can increase buyer confidence and scalability. From Amazon FBA sellers to rapidly growing online brands, this episode offers valuable insights into building an ecommerce business that's not just profitable—but truly exit-ready. To learn more about Reuben Mattinson and RJM Tax Exemption, visit their website. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr 🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    35 min
  4. 6D AGO

    Hidden Traditions & Hermetic Thought Prof. Dr. Wouter J. Hanegraaff On Western Esotericism

    What is Western esotericism, and why has so much spiritual and philosophical knowledge been pushed to the margins of mainstream culture? In this episode, Prof. Dr. Wouter J. Hanegraaff—Professor of History of Hermetic Philosophy and Related Currents at the University of Amsterdam—explores the origins, evolution, and influence of hermetic thought throughout Western history. As one of the world's leading scholars on Western esotericism, Dr. Hanegraaff examines how traditions like Hermeticism, Renaissance Platonism, alchemy, and the New Age movement have shaped philosophy, spirituality, and cultural thought for centuries. His work focuses on the history of "rejected knowledge" and the tension between mystical traditions and academic institutions. In this conversation, we explore: How Western culture has interpreted and responded to esoteric traditions. Why the study of spirituality and concepts of God remain challenging within academia. What hermetic literature teaches about consciousness, reality, and human understanding. The historical influence of esoteric thought on religion, science, and philosophy. Blending cultural history, religious studies, and philosophy, this episode offers a fascinating look into the hidden intellectual traditions that continue to shape modern spiritual and academic discourse. To learn more about Prof. Dr. Wouter J. Hanegraaff and his work, visit his website. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  Keep up with Dr. Wouter Hanegraaff socials here: X: https://x.com/WJHanegraaff  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wjhanegraaff/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wouterhanegraaff/?hl=en  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    30 min
  5. MAY 6

    Concrete That Stores Energy Damian Stefaniuk On MIT's Breakthrough In Conductive Concrete

    What if the very buildings, roads, and infrastructure we use every day could store energy and act as massive power sources? In this episode, Damian Stefaniuk, Research Scientist at MIT's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Concrete Sustainability Hub (CSHub), unveils a revolutionary concept: conductive concrete. Damian's pioneering research explores how concrete can be engineered to conduct electricity and store energy—up to 10 times the capacity of traditional materials—while reducing the carbon footprint of cement production. This breakthrough could transform our infrastructure into smart, energy-storing systems, pushing the boundaries of clean energy solutions and emissions reduction. In this conversation, we dive into: ·       How concrete can be turned into a conductive material for energy storage. ·       The role of carbon-based conductive cement and nanomaterials in this innovation. ·       How infrastructure can contribute to renewable energy storage and clean energy goals. Damian's work promises to reshape the future of sustainable construction and energy storage. Tune in to learn more about how smart concrete could change the way we think about energy and infrastructure. Follow Damian and his work at MIT here! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    19 min
  6. MAY 5

    Mysticism & Meaning Dr. Steven Engler On Spiritual Beliefs Across Cultures

    In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Steven Engler, a Professor of Religious Studies at Mount Royal University, guides us through the fascinating world of mysticism, spirituality, and belief across diverse cultures. Dr. Engler's expertise bridges esoteric traditions, lived religious experiences, and cross-cultural inquiry, offering a unique perspective on how spiritual meaning is woven into human life. With research spanning Afro-Brazilian traditions like Umbanda and Candomblé, Dr. Engler delves into how belief systems shape individual and collective experiences, and how esoteric practices influence both personal transformation and cultural narratives. His work challenges conventional approaches to understanding spirituality, emphasizing lived religion and the diverse ways people find meaning. In this conversation, we explore: ·       How cultural traditions and personal stories intersect with religious beliefs. ·       The power of belief in shaping individual and communal experiences. ·       Dr. Engler's personal encounters and how they have shaped his understanding of spirituality. Whether you're interested in religion, mysticism, or cross-cultural studies, this episode offers rich insights into the ways spirituality manifests across belief systems. You can find more about Dr. Engler here! and on his blog. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    31 min
  7. MAY 4

    Beyond Addiction: Dr. Adi Jaffe On Mental Health, Behavior Change & Shame-Free Recovery

    Is it time to rethink how we approach addiction and mental health? In this episode, Dr. Adi Jaffe—#1 best-selling author and founder of IGNTD—shares a transformative perspective on recovery, behavior change, and emotional well-being that challenges traditional, one-size-fits-all models. A former UCLA psychology lecturer and leading voice in mental health innovation, Dr. Jaffe draws from both professional expertise and personal experience to help individuals move beyond shame, rigid rules, and outdated recovery frameworks. His work focuses on empowering people to reconnect with purpose, build healthier relationships, and create lasting change. In this conversation, we explore: ·       How anxiety and mental health challenges have evolved in today's fast-paced, tech-driven world. ·       The psychological effects of technology, habits, and modern lifestyle patterns. ·       Healthier ways to navigate conflict, relationships, and emotional triggers. ·       Why redefining addiction can lead to more effective, personalized recovery paths. To learn more about Dr. Adi Jaffe and his work, visit his website. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr Keep up with Dr. Adi Jaffe socials here: X: https://x.com/DrAdiJaffe  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dradijaffe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dradijaffe/  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dradijaffe  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    35 min
  8. APR 29

    Law Firm Profitability Simplified Ben Hockema On Profit First & Financial Clarity

    Why do so many law firms struggle with cash flow, profitability, and financial clarity? In this episode, Ben Hockema, CFP® and Founder of Illuminate Wealth Management, breaks down practical strategies to help law firm owners take control of their finances and build more sustainable, profitable practices. With recognition from major publications like The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, Ben brings a clear, no-nonsense approach to financial planning—helping attorneys move beyond stress and uncertainty toward confidence and control. His work focuses on creating systems that support both business success and personal financial well-being. In this conversation, we explore: ·       Why managing finances in a law firm is more complex than it appears. ·       How the "Profit First" system works and which firms benefit most from it. ·       Key differences in bookkeeping and accounting for law firms. ·       Strategies for improving cash flow, profitability, and long-term financial planning. Whether you're a solo attorney or managing a growing firm, this episode offers actionable insights to help you design a financial roadmap aligned with your goals and values. To learn more about Ben Hockema and his work, visit Illuminate Wealth Management. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  🛍️ Recommended Products & Reads from This Episode: 🎙️ Blue Yeti USB Microphone – A top choice for aspiring podcasters and speakers who want professional-grade audio at home. 👉Check it out Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!

    31 min

About

Our goal is to make each of our guests exclaim: "hmmm... that's a good question. I don't know the answer." ...because when that happens, it means you, the listener, may be inspired to learn more beyond the interview and to ask great questions yourself that lead to new insights. In this podcast, we cover, Historical and current Anthropology, Comparative Religion and History

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