Join us in Minneapolis for a special live recording of "That's a Good Question" with our delightful guest, my grandmother, Clara Korb. We kick off with the logistics of my flight and a funny story about a game download gone awry. Grandma Clare brings her unique perspective on Midwest living, the quirks of hay fever, and precious family memories. We even chat about how foods like hummus impact our health and the value of community support for our elders.

Next, we ponder the fascinating idea that humans might experience up to 27 different senses. From proprioception to the sense of gravity, we explore how these senses influence our daily lives and set us apart from animals. Our chat delves into the cognitive abilities that make humans unique and what a richer sensory experience could mean for our understanding of the world. It's an enlightening conversation that spans science, philosophy, and everyday life.

Finally, we take a trip down memory lane with stories of fire dancers, firecrackers, and playful pranks like soaping windows. Our nostalgic journey continues with reflections on 1930s Christmas traditions, childhood belief in Santa Claus, and the magic of metaphors. We wrap up with some whimsical musings on creative collaboration and metaphorical motorcycle trips, underscoring the importance of taking initiative and savoring humorous moments. Tune in for a heartfelt episode brimming with laughter, wisdom, and thought-provoking insights.

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Ever wondered if you've become just like your father or how our parents shape who we are? Join us in a fun-filled episode that kicks off with a playful nod to the "recording in progress" lady as we reminisce about our YouTube promotional videos and the hilarious ways our family members discovered them. We share heartwarming reflections on Father's Day, ponder whether we've turned into our fathers, and celebrate the unique blend of influences from both parents. Along the way, we dive into our musical adventures, recounting the joys and challenges of playing instruments like guitar, bass, and drums, and how rhythm and coordination have played a crucial role in our lives.

Unlock the secrets of music theory with us as we discuss intervals within scales and the circle of fifths, and how these concepts can elevate your musical practice. We break down the structure of notes in the chromatic and diatonic scales, offering practical tips for transitioning between chords and the benefits of using a metronome. Discover how tools like a capo and Chordify can make your practice sessions more engaging and effective, and learn about the importance of finding a structured routine to hone your skills.

But it’s not just about music—it's about the parallels between learning an instrument and fostering creativity in all areas of life. Hear our analogies between building a campfire and mastering guitar, and the essential elements needed to fuel progress. We explore the concept of intergenerational sharing circles and the significance of creating safe spaces for open dialogue. Personal stories about setting goals, the vulnerability in creative pursuits, and finding self-compassion and resilience mark our journey. We wrap up with a cheerful Father's Day message and a humorous nod to masculine energy, leaving you with a smile and a sense of connection. Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe even learn a thing or two!

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Have you ever wondered how a simple idea blossoms into a full-fledged song? In today's episode, we share the enchanting journey of musical creativity, filled with personal stories and unexpected sparks of inspiration. We'll talk about the magical moment when a fleeting idea takes root and the joy of capturing it with tabbing tools. From the intuitive control we wield over our instruments to the delightful process of layering sounds, you'll get an inside look at the heart of songwriting and composition. Plus, hear our thoughts on how AI could revolutionize the creation of promotional video clips for our podcast.

Our conversation takes a quirky turn when a Zoom glitch leads us into a chat about technology and the whimsical "Zoom spirits". We'll then shift gears to an unusual yet fascinating discussion on classical guitars, their design, and the peculiarities of language. Brace yourself as we dive into the complexities of financial investments, corporate propaganda, and the ethical boundaries of advertising, all while questioning our participation in potentially harmful systems. This episode is not just about music; it's about the larger societal issues that intersect with our creative world.

Relationships get a fun twist as we tackle the playful yet surprisingly profound question, "Would you still love me if I were a worm?" This whimsical query opens up deeper discussions on relationship dynamics, revealing how trivial questions can stir significant emotions. We'll even touch on the curious origins of worms in North America and the societal implications of a bear encountering a man in the woods. Through these light-hearted yet meaningful conversations, we emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives and the growth that comes from engaging in thoughtful dialogue. Don't miss this rollercoaster of an episode filled with laughter, insights, and a touch of whimsy.

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Join us as we recount memorable adventures. Our journey will take you deep into the early history of California, examining the impact of European arrivals and the gold rush on local populations and resources, setting the stage for the birth of the global mining industry.

What are the chances that you were even born? We ponder the mind-boggling one in 400 trillion odds, tracing the lineage of successful reproduction that brought us here. Our discussion will stretch your imagination with insights inspired by Ursula Le Guin, examining alternative societies through an anarchist lens. We'll challenge your understanding of time itself, comparing sequential and simultaneity theories, and reflecting on Einstein's notions of local versus global time, blending scientific rigor with philosophical musings.

Have you ever had a dream where time seemed to warp and bend? We share a vivid dream involving a bear, a tunnel, and a lake, offering a springboard into a conversation about the fluid nature of time in dreams and flow states. Movement and dance emerge as powerful metaphors for self-discovery and expression, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance. Finally, we talk about the complexities of building genuine relationships, the excitement of future collaborations, and our shared enthusiasm for the Timberwolves, ending on a hopeful and light-hearted note.

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Have you ever wondered how high school popularity shapes our adult selves? Join us as we recount our awe-inspiring, and sometimes intimidating, interactions with the homecoming king whose charisma and thrill-seeking nature left a lasting impression. Fast forward to college, we had an unexpected encounter that transformed our perspective, revealing mutual respect and an unexpected recognition of our career paths. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the evolution of our desires for social acceptance and how authenticity and self-acceptance become central themes in adulthood.

And what's a late-night chat without some comfort talk? We dive into amusing yet relatable conversations about Tempur-Pedic mattresses and their cozy allure. As we scroll through Twitter, we stumble upon a viral tweet about marriage equality in Minnesota, sparking reflections on personal connections to political events. From family anecdotes like a boss's near-priesthood turned romantic love story to tackling AI's current role and future in creative writing, we keep it candid and conversational. Reflect with us on how popularity, true belonging, and the quest for acceptance shape our lives.

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Why rely on AI for podcast transcripts? Join us as we humorously grapple with this very question, beginning with our comical hunt for the ever-elusive Zoom link. Once we’ve conquered that hurdle, we bring you into our cozy conversation from rainy Whidbey Island, where Cinco de Mayo festivities are in full swing. We’re excited to introduce AI-generated transcripts to our episodes, but not without weighing the benefits and drawbacks of this technological leap. What starts as a playful debate about the color of a jacket morphs into a fascinating exploration of semantics, communication, and the evolution of language.

Ever wondered how a single question can shape your entire career? Reflecting on a pivotal chat about parallel computing from 1981, we recount a journey that meandered from software development to hardware design and even education. We discuss how good questions have the power to ignite passions and drive professional evolution. We also touch on the profound impact of free software, especially vector graphic editing tools, on personal and industry-wide growth, showing how these resources democratize tech innovation.

Can love be a form of activism? Inspired by a Zen master and a memorable episode of "On Being" with Angel Kyoto Williams, we delve into this transformative idea. We explore how allowing others to be as they are can fuel both personal growth and social change, sharing insights from a course on "The Inner Life of Activism." Finally, we ponder the diverging paths of technical versus philosophical inquiries, using personal anecdotes to highlight how these questions shape our journeys and creative pursuits. Join us for a rich blend of humor, reflection, and thought-provoking discussions.

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Ever wrestled with the heartache of parting ways with a cherished piece of technology? We've all been there, and in this playful debate, we tackle the timeless conundrum of whether to breathe new life into an old computer or embrace the shiny allure of the latest gadgets. Join us as we wade through the sentimental swamp of tech obsolescence, the adventure of seeking third-party repairs, and the warm embrace of nostalgia for the devices we've grown to love. And for a twist, we'll take you on a Scooby-Doo escapade with a ferry captain mystery that's sure to tickle your funny bone. Plus, we get a little introspective, pondering the puzzle of labeling decades and why it's so hard to name the era we're living in as it unfolds.

Strap in for a sensory trip from the electrifying Sphere to the tranquil realm of meditation and self-care. Discover the magnetic pull of curating your social media to spark unexpected joy and the personal journey of resisting Las Vegas' siren call. Unleash your inner 'cat energy' with us, learning to embody the traits of our feline friends for a life of cool composure. We'll also dive into the transformational power of attention and how meditation can steer the course of our lives, gently guiding our focus back to the present moment, without judgment. Prepare to leave with insights on personal growth and a hearty dose of laughter—this episode has it all.

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Ben and Scott talk to Scott's cousin Tom during a California visit (for Tom and Ben).

From chat.openai.com:

In this podcast, Ben and Scott engage in a lively and wide-ranging conversation touching on various aspects of family life, societal influences, and personal anecdotes. They discuss the changing landscape of cooking habits over the years, from homemade meals to reliance on packaged foods, reflecting on the role of corporate propaganda and government collaborations in shaping consumer behavior. They reminisce about childhood experiences, such as discovering the true nature of spinach and the shock of finding hidden alcoholic beverages. Throughout the discussion, there's a blend of humor and introspection as they explore topics ranging from historical shifts in agricultural practices to the influence of popular culture.

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