59: ThinkWORKS 59 The Einstein Principle!
Many people think that Einstein was just a simple scientist who went about formulating the laws that govern the Universe, but he was so much more than that. Apart from being the man who had the greatest single impact on the advancement of our understanding of the laws that govern the physical universe, Einstein was also a philosopher king! From my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', we l...
23m May 12, 2025
23m
58: ThinkWORKS Episode 58 Indian & Eastern Philosophy 101 Part 5 The Nature of Reality!
We continue our mini-series on Eastern & Indian philosophies and consider the nature of reality in Hindu, Buddhist & Taoist teachings, and how they are both similar to and differ from Plato's Allegory of the Cave. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-58-indian-eastern-philosophy-101-part-5-the-nature-of...
20m May 05, 2025
20m
57: ThinkWORKS Episode 57 Presents Unexplained Mysteries 2: The Colony That Vanished!
Few mysteries have captured the American psyche more than that of the mysterious disappearance of a whole colony of English settlers in 1590, leaving behind only one word, Croatoan, which was carved into a log within the deserted colony. It was only natural therefore, that your hosts, Darren Smithson & Steve Lowe, discuss the story behind the colony, possible causes of its disappearance, and th...
33m Apr 28, 2025
33m
56: ThinkWORKS Episode 56 Indian & Eastern Philosophy Part 4 Identity & Continuity
Continuing our series on Eastern & Indian philosophies, this edition of ThinkWORKS examines the Hindu & Buddhist discourses on the nature of identity and continuity, which offer both complimentary AND competing visions on the nature of self in a reality that is either permanently fixed OR constantly changing. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-disc...
19m Apr 21, 2025
19m
55: ThinkWORKS Episode 55 Eastern & Indian Philosophy Part 3 The 4 Noble Truths and The 8-fold Noble Path
The Buddhist beliefs about the 4 Noble Truths and the 8-fold Noble Path form the foundation of a deeply profound philosophical doctrine with parallels and connections to other Asian philosophies. This episode explains what the Noble Truths are and how they can be achieved by following the 8-fold Noble Path. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discus...
21m Apr 14, 2025
21m
54: ThinkWORKS Episode 54 Eastern & Indian Philosophy An Introduction Part 2
Continuing our introduction on the principle themes of Indian and Eastern philosophy, this episodes discusses some more of the considerations we need to have before we delve properly into their key philosophical discourses on the nature of reality, truth and enlightenment. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-e...
13m Apr 07, 2025
13m
53: ThinkWORKS Episode 53 Eastern & Indian Philosophy 101 Part 1
At last, we pick up the threads of our Philosophy 101 by looking at the traditions put forward in Indian and Eastern philosophy. Part 1 discusses the main tracts of their philosophies and compares and contrasts them with the themes put forward in modern Western philosophies, all by way of introducing this new series of episodes. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworks...
22m Mar 31, 2025
22m
52: ThinkWORKS Episode 52: Unexplained Mysteries Presents Jack The Ripper!
His gruesome murders have gripped the psyche of humanity for generations, with detectives both professional and amateur spending tens of years trying to discover just who was Jack The Ripper. Join ThinkWORKS host Darren Smithson and regular contributor Steve Lowe as they present the first in a 'series within a series', as ThinkWORKS becomes 'Unexplained Mysteries' to discuss the horror of this ...
1hr 10m Mar 24, 2025
1hr 10m
51: ThinkWORKS Episode 51 The 50 Year Horizon: An Epilogue!
If we accept that science and technology will continue to develop new frontiers across all aspects of our life and work, what ethical frameworks should we insist are developed to protect and serve the wider humanity? This episode picks up from episode 50s discussion of the near future. Add you own view to https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkw...
26m Mar 17, 2025
26m
50: ThinkWORKS Episode 50: The 50 Year Horizon!
Looking to the edge of what is predictable before accuracy starts to fall away, this episode discusses the idea of 'the 50 year horizon', the impact of Arthur C Clarke, the visionary who really give this concept traction, and attempts to make some predictions about scientific and technological advances over the coming 50 years. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksf...
38m Mar 10, 2025
38m
49: ThinkWORKS Episode 49 Strategy Wins Every Time!
A plan without the strategies needed to achieve the goal of the plan, is a document without a purpose! This episode discusses one of the ideas in my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', and explains how best to employ necessary strategies for managing you work, personal life or projects. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment...
18m Mar 03, 2025
18m
48: ThinkWORKS Episode 48 The Enduring Legacy of Dracula and Why The Count Provides a Lens on The World Today.
Since its publication in 1897, Bram Stoker's Dracula has both horrified and inspired countless generations and numerous adaptations across all media types, from film, TV, music and comics, to plays and new books. But 'Dracula' also spoke to the fears and anxieties of its Victorian audience, and provides a lens into a world seemingly still locked in those fears. This episode discusses the Count ...
26m Feb 24, 2025
26m
47: ThinkWorks Episode 47 The Monster Motif
Why do monsters fascinate us? What makes humans create legends, stories and myths around Krakens, Sirens, Mummies, Zombies, Vampires and Aliens? This episode delves into the deep psychological need humans have to both explain unexplainable events AND live cathartically through chills and thrills. Join in the discussion and share with us your favourite monster and why it is, at https://www.darre...
20m Feb 17, 2025
20m
46: ThinkWORKS Episode 46 Mathematics and The Universal Language (and why you shouldn't be afraid of it)!
Wait, don't run away! This episode we take a look at why you are good at maths but probably don't know it, and how maths shapes everything around us from days of yore to the furthest reaches of space. All that and we have a quick introduction to the famous equation e=mc2 (energy = mass x the speed of light squared). If you want to know how to take control of your mathematics in life, tell us ...
39m Feb 10, 2025
39m
45: ThinkWORKS Episode 45 Flex Your Decision-Making Muscle!
We all joke about making executive decisions, but the reality is that we’ve created a climate of fear that most definitely dissuades us from making key decisions just in case we make the wrong one. In effect we’ve got into a state of learned helplessness. You see like any muscle, decision making has to be done consistently other wise the ability to make decisions becomes weak and flabby. This e...
27m Feb 03, 2025
27m
44: ThinkWORKS Episode 44 The Vision Thing: Why Having a Vision is Important and How to Craft One!
Most 'vision' statements are uninspiring, made for boardrooms and shareholders, and do little to inspire the workforce, or indeed, entrepreneurs and small business owners. And remarkably, few people have a clearly defined vision for their personal life either. This episode explains why having a properly crafted vision is important, and how best to create one that is inspiring- whether for yo...
22m Jan 27, 2025
22m
43: ThinkWORKS Episode 43 The Power In 'How Can I Help?'
In this episode of ThinkWORKS, we explore the transformative power of the question "How can I help?" Inspired by "New Amsterdam's" Dr. Max Goodwin, we delve into real-life examples where this simple inquiry sparks innovation, deepens empathy, and fosters meaningful collaboration. Join us as we uncover how adopting this philosophy can enrich lives, build stronger connections, and create impactfu...
26m Jan 20, 2025
26m
42: ThinkWORKS Episode 42 Life The Universe and Everything!
It's episode 42, so there is only one topic I could discuss and that's the ultimate answer to life, the universe and everything, which of course we all know is 42! And as part of that we're going to discuss the genius that is Douglas Adams and the impact of 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. Join in the discussion and tell us your favourite lines from Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, or your...
22m Jan 13, 2025
22m
41: ThinkWORKS Episode 41 The Power Of Setting Goals
With my new book, 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better' out in the spring giving a full blueprint for planning, setting and delivering on professional and personal goals, this episode introduces the powerful art of setting and achieving goals. Goals serve as a compass that guides our decisions and actions, providing direction and clarity, allowing us to focus our efforts on what truly matters. Fin...
21m Jan 06, 2025
21m
40: ThinkWORKS Episode 40 Why New Year Resolutions Are Commitments to the Gods
Did you know that when you make your New Year resolutions, you're actually making commitments to the Gods? This short episodes explains how the ritual of New Tear Resolutions came into being and also recaps ways that you can make sure your resolutions for 2025 stick. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode...
12m Dec 30, 2024
12m
39: ThinkWORKS Episode 39 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 4
In our fourth and final part of our look at popular Conspiracy Theories, guest Steve Lowe and I look at the Illuminati, the Hollow Moon, and the Reptilians and how the three theories have come to be linked! Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-39-conspiracy-theories-101-part-4
1hr 4m Dec 23, 2024
1hr 4m
38: ThinkWORKS Episode 38 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 3
This week we present part 3 of our look at Conspiracy Theories (with the fourth and final part next week) as myself and guest Steve Lowe take a quick look at Covid 19 and then go deep on Area 51, the crash at Roswell and the alien autopsy footage! Add your comments here and tell us your favourite conspiracy theory and why at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 38 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 3...
33m Dec 16, 2024
33m
37: ThinkWORKS Episode 37 Turn Your New Year Resolutions into Resilient Goals for 2025
This episode I show you how to turn your upcoming New Year Resolutions into exciting, adventurous goals that will survive beyond February 2025, and how a free 30 Day Challenge can springboard you into 2025 with the best possible start! Join in the discussion and get the links to the Challenge and Journal at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thi...
25m Dec 09, 2024
25m
36: ThinkWORKS Episode 36 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 2
As we continue our mini-series on conspiracy theories, guest Steve Lowe and I take a look at the moon landing, the 911 attacks and contrails and explain some of the various conspiracy theories surrounding these events and try to unpick some of the key arguments. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-36-co...
46m Dec 02, 2024
46m
35: ThinkWORKS Episode 35 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 1 Why We Want To Believe
The first of several episodes that look at conspiracy theories examines why they hold such sway in the human psyche. Join your host Darren Smithson with guest Steve Lowe as they look at the psychology behind and impact of Conspiracy Theories in modern society. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-35-cons...
58m Nov 25, 2024
58m
34: ThinkWORKS Episode 34 The Holographic Universe - Peering Beyond Reality's Illusion
Are we just holograms created by a boundary universe or even living inside a future version of The Sims? This episode we delve into the fascination world of M branes, N space and de Sitter universes! Comment with your brain-frying theories at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-34-the-holographic-universe-peering-beyond-reality...
16m Nov 18, 2024
16m
33: ThinkWORKS Episode 33 Suspend Your Disbelief!
In this episode I discuss how a 'trick' we do when we go see a blockbuster movie (i.e. suspending our disbelief at how man in bare feet can single-handledly defeat a well trained army of terrorists) can be used consciously to help you achieve something big in your personal or professional life. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment...
22m Nov 11, 2024
22m
32: ThinkWORKS Episode 32 Bridging the Gap Between Dependency and Understanding
"We live in a society exquisitely dependent on science & technology, in which hardly anyone knows anything about science & technology."- Carl Sagan This week's ThinkWORKS discusses the meaning of Carl's statement and ponders on just what can be done to narrow the gap. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-epi...
37m Nov 04, 2024
37m
31: ThinkWORKS Episode 31 Carl Sagan A Stellar Legacy in Science and Culture
One of my heroes, and the man who started me on my journey into the world of science, and in particular, Space Exploration, is Carl Sagan, the man behind the TV series 'Cosmos'. What many people probably don't know is that outside of the hit series, he was a giant in the fields of planetary science and space exploration. This episode discusses his impact on the popularisation of science, his im...
29m Oct 28, 2024
29m
30: ThinkWORKS Episode 30 The Future of Healthcare Technology
As healthcare technology embraces new frontiers, we look at what we can expect and what ethical and regulatory considerations need to be made as a drive toward the digitalisation of services pushes ahead. Make your comments with your thoughts about this area at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-30-the-future-of-healthcare-tec...
29m Oct 21, 2024
29m
29: ThinkWORKS Episode 29 Emergency Recording on It's Time to Bring IT Companies to Heel
Well, a so-called update from Microsoft ruined my planned episode for this week, so I am borrowing from a feature I do on my 'The Wednesday Supplement' radio show, called NewsRant. But there's a serious message, it's time we brought the IT companies to heel... Give me your horror stories of bad IT updates, data privacy concerns or breaches and so on and we'll take consolation in our shared mish...
15m Oct 14, 2024
15m
28: ThinkWORKS Episode 28 Tackling Presentation Fear- Hacks for Unforgettable Talks!
Fear of public speaking regularly tops even death in Top Fears surveys, but sooner or later, we're all going to need to present in some form or another. Here's some tips, hacks and strategies for handling those nerves and doing a talk or presentation in style. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/thinkworks-episode-28-tackling-presentatio...
37m Oct 07, 2024
37m
27: ThinkWORKS Episode 27 Thinks to Come
As we reach 6 months of ThinkWORKS, we pause and take a look at upcoming episodes and give a flavour of concepts and ideas arising from my upcoming book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', as well as some other themes around science, culture, philosophy and even conspiracy theories. Add your comments and suggestions for other topics to discuss as ThinkWORKS heads towards its first birthday in the...
17m Sep 30, 2024
17m
26: ThinkWORKS Episode 26 The Magic of Six
Across science, business, religion, spirituality, art and nature, the number 6 keeps turning up with ubiquitous significance. In this episode we run through just some of the ways the number is important and seems to have almost magical properties in our reality. Join the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/thinkworks-episode-26-the-magic-of-six
17m Sep 23, 2024
17m
25: ThinkWORKS Episode 25 The Paralysis of Analysis!
We've all been there. There's a job that needs doing, but what's the best way? Lots of options, each with benefits and each with compromises. So what do we do, we do some more research... just in case! But the just on case becomes postponement and deadline slippage and eventually time-crash! Welcome to the world of paralysing analysis. This episode discusses what it is, how to spot it and wha...
23m Sep 16, 2024
23m
24: ThinkWORKS Episode 24 Philosophy 101 Part 3 The Meaning of Life in an Age of AI and Artificial Consciousness
In the third and final part* of our Philosophy 101 discussions, we look at the meaning of life, and bring the question right up to date as we also consider what it means in an age of AI and the whole science of artificial consciousness. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-philosophy-101-parts-1-3 * We will be ...
36m Sep 09, 2024
36m
23: ThinkWORKS Episode 23 Philosophy 101 Part 2
Continuing our look at some of the most famous Western philosophy tracts (a special episode on Eastern & Asian philosophy is being planned) as this week we look at Utilitarianism and the Runaway Trolley Problem. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-philosophy-101-parts-1-3
19m Sep 02, 2024
19m
22: ThinkWORKS Episode 22 Philosophy 101 Part 1
In the first part of our 3 part Philosophy 101, we discuss The Ship of Theseus, The Prisoners in a Cave, and 'Cognito, Ergo Sum' (I Think Therefore I Am), tackling as they do themes of identity, reality and consciousness, and relating them to modern life. You can join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-philosoph...
25m Aug 26, 2024
25m
21: ThinkWORKS Episode 21 Why Having a Hobby is Good for Business
What hobby do you have, or would like to have, that you feel really passionate about? How could you relate that to your business or work? This episode explores how something you are passionate about could actually have uses in other aspects of your life, especially your business or job. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-fo...
18m Aug 19, 2024
18m
20: ThinkWORKS Episode 20 The Enduring Legacy of Frankenstein
For this episode we're going to look at the significance of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', with a focus on the history of the novel, its impact on popular culture, and offer an exploration of fear psychology and the monster motif. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-the-enduring-legacy-of-frankenstein
27m Aug 12, 2024
27m
19: ThinkWORKS Episode 19 Switch It Off!
In the 1970s, a typical citizen might expect to encounter an 500 adverts per day. Today, it is over 5000 per day! And that's just adverts. Not news alerts, social media notifications, email notifications, SMS messages and so on. There is no wonder many of us feel our brains are about to explode. This episode looks at why the constant barrage of 'stuff' affects our ability to be effective, what ...
23m Aug 05, 2024
23m
18: ThinkWORKS Episode 18 Football and Tribalism
Join Darren and guest Steve Lowe as they discuss the enduring popularity of football (soccer to our American 7 Australian cousins) and how it provides a vehicle for the instinctive need to part of a tribe or feudal community. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-episode-18-football-tribalism
40m Jul 29, 2024
40m
17: ThinkWORKS Episode 17 The Curse of Imposter Syndrome
So, do you ever have that nagging feeling that you may have bitten off more than you can chew, that maybe that you're not as competent as you thought you were, or worse, that others think you are? Do you wonder if maybe you don’t deserve your success and put it down to luck that you are? And do you fear that sooner or later, you’ll be exposed as a 'fraud.'? If you've ever doubted your abilitie...
24m Jul 22, 2024
24m
16: ThinkWORKS Episode 16 The Lasting Legacy of Star Trek.
In this episode we look at the enduring impact of Star Trek on popular culture and its influence on various aspects of society, culture and the hope of a future in which humanity has grown up. Yes, I'm letting my inner geek out for this week! Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/thinkworks-episode-16-the-lasting-legacy-of-star-trek
33m Jul 15, 2024
33m
15: ThinkWORKS Episode 15 Designing Your Perfect Day.
Comment at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/thinkworks-episode-15-designing-your-perfect-day It's Such A Perfect Day... the famous line from a famous song, but perfect days rarely happen if you don't at least give the day a framework. There may be no such thing as perfection, but having your ideal day designed as a framework to hang your activities on is certa...
48m Jul 08, 2024
48m
14: ThinkWORKS Episode 14 When Your Brain Betrays You: FND 101
Do you experience strange symptoms that baffle your doctors? You might be dealing with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Join us as we delve into the mysterious world of FND, uncover the reasons behind these baffling symptoms, and explore why it often takes years to get a proper diagnosis. Tune in to understand how your brain might be working against you and learn essential insights for n...
51m Jul 01, 2024
51m
13: ThinkWORKS Episode 13 Choose Progress Over Perfection
In a world that often glorifies perfection and flawless outcomes, it's essential to recognize the inherent value of progress over the elusive pursuit of perfection. In this episode, with returning guest Steve Lowe, we discuss some key reasons why prioritising progress is more beneficial for both personal and business growth and success.
31m Jun 24, 2024
31m
12: ThinkWORKS Episode 12 The Art of Journaling and Why It Helps
Journaling is a powerful tool that can have a profound impact on various aspects of your life, ranging from increased productivity all the way through to helping improve mental health and robustness. In this episode, Darren Smithson discusses how journaling helps, how best to use journals and even tells you what journaling system he uses. Join in the discussion on the Forum at https://www.darre...
56m Jun 17, 2024
56m
11: ThinkWORKS Episode 11 The Importance of Choosing The Right Kitchen Cabinet
The concept of a 'kitchen cabinet' in a metaphorical sense refers to a trusted group of advisors or confidants who provide valuable insights, guidance, wisdom, and perspective on important decisions and challenges. They serve as a personal board of directors or inner circle. So surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial. Join in the discussion at The Importance of Choosing The Right...
33m Jun 03, 2024
33m
10: ThinkWORKS Episode 10 Why You Should Learn The Art of Saying No
Saying no is essential for maintaining balance, setting boundaries, and fostering respect in both personal and professional relationships. It empowers you to focus on what truly matters and leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. This episode of ThinkWORKS explains why this is so, and gives hacks on how you can say no elegantly. Add your "should have said/should say no" situations and ...
38m Jun 03, 2024
38m