Solutions From The Multiverse

Adam Braus & Scot Maupin
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Hosts Adam Braus (@ajbraus) and Scot Maupin (@scotmaupin) meet up each week where Adam brings a new idea to help the world and Scot picks and prods at it with jokes and questions. The result is an informative and entertaining podcast that always gets you thinking.

  1. FEB 11

    Solving Sabotage: Can Sabotage Ever Be Ethical?

    Send a text Ever wish you could stop harm before it starts—without hurting anyone? We dive into ethical sabotage, a provocative framework for targeted, non-injurious disruption aimed at preventing foreseeable damage. Instead of waiting at the tracks to pull a switch in the trolley problem, we ask what it looks like to keep the trolley from leaving the station in the first place—by disabling a light, jamming a gear, or interrupting a supply line—while staying grounded in strict moral limits. We unpack the guardrails that keep strategy ethical: zero physical injury, proportionality between means and ends, precise targets that actually change outcomes, and a hard line against chaos-inducing tools like fire. From hacktivism that exposes abuse to strike tactics that erode profit margins, we explore how small interventions at key choke points can produce outsized effects. We examine historical contrasts—Gandhi’s nonviolence versus Mandela’s constrained sabotage under apartheid—to show how the character of your opponent shapes effective, ethical resistance. And we draw practical lessons from the CIA’s declassified Simple Sabotage Manual, reframing its operational tricks as a blueprint with added ethical constraints. Climate action provides a clear stress test: shutting down a cement kiln or stalling a high-emissions operation can be morally compelling, but only if actions are precise, reversible where possible, and legible to public judgment. We challenge the lazy conflation of broken windows with bombs and argue for a vocabulary that makes room for calibrated disruption when protest alone fails and violence is both wrong and self-defeating. If you’re curious about where nonviolence ends and strategy begins, this conversation lays out a usable, principled middle path. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves moral puzzles, and tell us: where would you draw the line? Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    1 hr

  2. 02/26/2025

    Solving Bioethics: Compassionate Principlism

    Send a text In this week's episode of "Solutions from the Multiverse," I (Adam) used Google Notebook LLM to make a podcast episode about my recent  paper "Compassionate Principlism: Towards a Novel Alternative to Standard Principlism in Bioethics" published in Bioethical Inquiry (https://doi.org/10.1007/s11673-024-10373-9) In it our AI hosts dive into the fascinating world of bioethical frameworks with a groundbreaking alternative to traditional principlism. Our guest introduces "Compassionate Principlism," a novel approach that transforms how we resolve conflicts between ethical principles in healthcare. What happens when we shift beneficence from moral symmetry to asymmetry? How might this change address the inconsistencies that have plagued principlism for decades? Join us as we explore a potential solution to one of bioethics' most persistent challenges, examining how this framework could reshape clinical decision-making and better align with our intuitive moral judgments about reducing unnecessary suffering. Whether you're a healthcare professional, bioethicist, or simply interested in how we make difficult moral choices, this episode offers a fresh perspective on solving bioethical dilemmas. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    23 min

  3. 07/09/2024

    Solving Academic Journals: A Journal for Ambitious Ideas | SFM E99

    Send a text Can music and speech combine to create powerful emotional experiences? Join us as we explore this fascinating intersection, starting with a light-hearted chat about our attempts at pop music. We dive deep into the creative process of blending musical elements like violin and percussion with iconic speeches from figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Martin Luther King Jr. Our journey takes a poignant turn as we discuss future compositions inspired by speeches from "The Matrix" and Charlie Chaplin's "The Great Dictator," reflecting on the timeless and moving message of humanity, kindness, and unity embedded in Chaplin's words. Imagine a journal that celebrates ambitious ideas with high-risk, high-reward potential. We dream aloud about launching a groundbreaking academic journal that breaks away from the conservative norms of traditional publications. Dubbed the "Journal of Big Swings," this project aims to prioritize bold, innovative theories that may not yet be fully provable but deserve exploration. Our brainstorming session includes humorous potential names and the crucial role of reputable contributors to establish credibility. We wrap up this segment with a playful discussion on how enthusiastic supporters of ambitious academic research could propel such a journal into existence. Discover the future of note-taking with digital tools like Obsidian, which help users create interconnected, personal knowledge networks. We discuss how such software can revolutionize the way we organize and visualize information, leading to an innovative idea for an academic journal named "The Journal of Ambitious Inquiry." This journal would offer a platform for sharing and discussing bold hypotheses without the immediate need for evidence. We close by examining the challenges revolutionary ideas face in traditional academic publishing and the need for more flexible avenues to recognize and disseminate transformative concepts. The episode concludes with a call for innovation in academic publishing to better support groundbreaking ideas. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    34 min

  4. 07/02/2024

    Solving the National Debt: Raise Taxes on the Wealthy | SFM E98

    Send a text Ever wondered how something as simple as a gradient puzzle could transform your day? Find out in this episode as we celebrate the zen-like qualities of gradient puzzles and their unique ability to relax and center your mind. Then, join us as we toast an extraordinary academic milestone: our guest's insightful paper on compassionate principalism in bioethics has been accepted by a prestigious journal. Discover how integrating compassion into healthcare could revolutionize the way we treat pain and suffering, offering a more holistic approach to medical ethics. Ever thought printing more money could solve national debt? Think again. We break down why this common misconception is flawed and explore the real driving forces behind national debt—policies that have favored the wealthy since the 1980s. This discussion not only debunks the household debt analogy but also highlights the societal and geopolitical consequences of national borrowing. Learn why the issue isn’t just about government overspending, but rather how wealth disparity and tax policies have shaped our current financial landscape. Why has national debt become a tool for enriching the wealthy rather than addressing public needs? We take a deep dive into the historical tax rates and the growing influence of money in politics, revealing how these factors contribute to political gridlock. With insights into potential solutions like ranked choice voting and reflections on the pandemic response, we offer a comprehensive look at how to tackle these entrenched issues. Plus, hear our critical review of Noah Fisher's "Economics 102" podcast for more perspectives on economic stability. Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the complexities of national debt, enriched by our guest's expert insights and timely reflections on upcoming 4th of July celebrations. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    40 min

  5. 06/25/2024

    Solving Fines, Pain, and Farts: Workday Fines, Empty Needles, and Fartless Beans | SFM E97

    Send a text Ever wondered why a millionaire and a minimum wage worker pay the same fine for a traffic violation? Today, we propose a groundbreaking idea: work day fines! Imagine fines proportionate to your daily income, making penalties just as impactful whether you're loaded or living paycheck to paycheck. We discuss how this system could balance the scales of justice and re-focus law enforcement on more serious crimes. Plus, we tackle potential hurdles like unreported income and how to handle them. Next up, prepare for a mind-bending concept: The Empty Needle. This one's for those who crave the sensation of getting a tattoo but aren't interested in the ink. Join us as we unpack the psychological and cultural allure of pain rituals, comparing this idea to ancient practices across various societies. We even brainstorm some catchy names and ponder broader applications like hyper acupuncture. This isn't just about tattoos; it's about exploring why we seek controlled pain experiences in the first place. Finally, let's talk beans—fart-free beans, that is! Imagine a world where beans don't cause gas, thanks to selective breeding, specialized treatments, or genetic magic. We explore the science of gas emissions, potential health benefits, and even the whimsical idea of harnessing fart energy. From the mechanics of flatulence to the social history of the fart, this segment offers plenty of laughs and insights. Join us as we wrap up with a light-hearted yet informative look at the evolution of human gas and its broader implications. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    50 min

  6. 06/18/2024

    Solving Ethics for Atheists: Minimizing Misery | SFM E96

    Send a text Can humor survive the era of cancel culture? Today, we tackle the intriguing concept of "lapelle de voie"—the call of the void—and its implications for banter and social interactions. We also explore the quirky idea of "cancel cultural appropriation," where people take on others' grievances. Our conversation shifts to an exciting personal project: innovative shirt designs aimed at reducing laundry frequency and combating climate change. You'll hear about the creative process and the costs involved in tailoring these unique garments. In our quest for fresh perspectives, we lament the rise of recycled concepts and missed opportunities for genuine innovation, even on platforms like TED. The episode also dives into a compelling discussion on morality and ethics. Do we need a divine arbiter to guide our behavior, or could a placebo deity suffice? We explore the role of religion in shaping laws and guiding moral actions, ending with a poignant story about conscientious objection during the Vietnam War and its impact on one man's career in community health. We then dissect the complexities of ethics, pondering what constitutes necessary and avoidable suffering. Through various ethical theories and historical examples like slavery and theft, we question the inherent moral worth of individuals. The episode wraps up with a fascinating look at empathy, cooperation, and the evolutionary roots of moral behavior. Using game theory and real-world scenarios, we highlight how cooperation and compassion can arise naturally, even without religious influence. Tune in for a thought-provoking blend of humor, social insight, and sustainability. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    45 min

  7. 06/11/2024

    Solving Energy, Architecture, and Elections: Earth Lasers, Cathedrals, and Sortition | SFM E95

    Send a text Imagine limitless, virtually free energy from geothermal fusion lasers! This episode explores groundbreaking advancements in geothermal energy, spotlighting a revolutionary laser technology capable of drilling through the Earth's crust to tap into superheated rocks. We discuss the transformative potential of setting up geothermal power plants anywhere, examine the risks like potential volcanic activity, and compare this to other futuristic energy solutions such as wave power and plasma-based fusion energy. Join us for a deep dive into the practicality and environmental impact of these pioneering technologies. Next, we shift our focus to a fascinating debate: Are grand cathedrals still relevant today? One side argues that these architectural marvels offer sublime beauty and spiritual experiences akin to natural wonders, using the Cathedral of the Light in Oakland as a modern example. The other side questions whether the resources invested in such monumental structures could be better spent on practical community improvements like planting trees or addressing homelessness. We explore both perspectives, weighing the inspirational value against ethical considerations of funding such projects. To wrap things up, we delve into political reform with a discussion on sortition—randomly selecting representatives as an alternative to traditional elections. Could this method democratize politics and reduce the influence of money? We discuss the potential benefits, like eliminating partisan conflicts and making political roles more accessible, alongside the risks, such as having unqualified candidates. We also consider sortition's application beyond politics, in contexts like companies and cities. Tune in for thought-provoking insights that challenge conventional thinking on energy, architecture, and governance! Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    38 min

  8. 06/04/2024

    Solving the Democratic Party: A Children's Bill of Rights | SFM E94

    Send a text What happens when a routine visit to a CrossFit gym turns into a saga of bans and baffling expectations? Join us as we recount the comedic chaos of our fitness journeys, topped off with a sprinkle of multiverse madness. Scott and I unravel the peculiar world of gym culture, sharing laughs over the highs and lows of our workouts. We also dive headfirst into the concept of multiverse travel, imagining encounters with our alternate selves and comparing our lives to those of other "Adams" scattered across the cosmos. In an alternate universe where the Children's Bill of Rights took center stage instead of the Build Back Better plan, everything changes. We explore this parallel reality where Democrats rebranded themselves as the ultimate champions of family values, winning bipartisan support and reshaping public perception. From permanent child tax credits to ambitious climate measures, we humorously dissect the political and social ramifications of prioritizing children's welfare. What if society genuinely placed children's rights at the forefront? We muse over hypothetical rights for kids, reflecting on how these changes could transform our world. Our journey doesn't stop there. We venture further into the implications of progressive child welfare policies in this alternate universe. Imagine rent support linked to having children, slashing poverty rates, and completely revamping societal attitudes toward family life. We draw thought-provoking parallels to our own political landscape, touching on themes from "Children of Men" and even toying with the wild idea of state-subsidized plastic surgery to boost population growth. This episode is packed with humor, insightful political commentary, and whimsical multiverse speculations that promise to entertain and engage. Support the show Help these new solutions spread by ... Subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts Leaving a 5-star review Sharing your favorite solution with your friends and network (this makes a BIG difference) Comments? Feedback? Questions? Solutions? Message us! We will do a mailbag episode. Email: solutionsfromthemultiverse@gmail.com Adam: @ajbraus - braus@hey.com Scot: @scotmaupin adambraus.com (Link to Adam's projects and books) The Perfect Show (Scot's solo podcast) Thanks to Jonah Burns for the SFM music.

    39 min
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About

Hosts Adam Braus (@ajbraus) and Scot Maupin (@scotmaupin) meet up each week where Adam brings a new idea to help the world and Scot picks and prods at it with jokes and questions. The result is an informative and entertaining podcast that always gets you thinking.

Information

  • Creator
    Adam Braus & Scot Maupin
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Solutions From The Multiverse
  • Show Website
    Solutions From The Multiverse