Best Erich Wenzel Podcasts (2025)

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Exploring AI's Role and Limitations: From Corporate Automation to Human Creativity 55:06

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9M ago55:06

55:06

In this episode of Feeding Curiosity, the hosts explore the implications of AI technology, discussing concerns about AI replacing human productivity; they debate the potential and limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT. The conversation covers corporate automation, the dangers of over-reliance on AI, and its inability to generate original thought or …

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Deep Dive: Robert Eggers' Nosferatu - Alchemy, Symbolism, and Horror 1:03:26

10M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In this episode of Feeding Curiosity, we start the year by exploring Robert Eggers' rendition of Nosferatu. We delve into the film's alchemical symbolism and how it reinvigorates old-school horror storytelling for a metamodern audience. We also break down the film's rich narrative layers, from the intricate character dynamics to the underlying myth…

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Exploring Awe, Meaning, and Dynamic Systems in Life 1:13:36

11M ago1:13:36

1:13:36

In this episode of Feeding Curiosity, the hosts discuss topics ranging from personal updates, such as Joe's application to PhD positions, to the significance of interdisciplinary thinking in academia. They delve into the podcast of Andrew Huberman and his father, exploring their differing graduate school experiences. The conversation roams through …

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Mind Over Miles: Reflections from the Marathon 26:18

12M ago26:18

26:18

In this episode of Feeding Curiosity, host Erich Wenzel reflects on the journey and insights from training for and completing two marathons. He discusses the challenges and sacrifices involved, including balancing marathon training with a full-time job and transitioning to a new career. Erich emphasizes the importance of building new experiences, p…

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Arcane Season 2 Act 3: Transformation and Perfection Explored 1:22:32

1y ago1:22:32

1:22:32

In this in-depth discussion of Act 3 of Arcane Season 2, the hosts analyze the central theme of transformation for each character, particularly the core 'good' characters who evolve into different versions of themselves. They elaborate on the positive and negative transformations, using characters like Vander and Victor as primary examples. The con…

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Arcane Season 2 Act 2: Deep Dive into Symbolism, Archetypes, and the Unconscious 1:30:02

1y ago1:30:02

1:30:02

We discuss 'Arcane' in Season 2, Act 2 in this episode. They explore the breathing room provided in this segment, examining Jinx's transformation and symbolic role in the undercity. The discussion covers character arcs, including the intricate relationship between Jinx, Vi, and Isha, with Isha representing Jinx's inner child. Further, they analyze …

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Arcane Season 2 Act 1: A Deep Dive into Themes, Characters, and Cultural Commentary 1:11:39

1y ago1:11:39

1:11:39

In this podcast episode, the hosts return after a hiatus to discuss the highly anticipated second season of 'Arcane.' They explore the show's unique release format while reflecting on its first season. The conversation delves into first impressions of the new episodes, analyzing the animation, plot developments, and thematic elements. Key points in…

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Film Deep Dive | Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse 1:39:59

2+ y ago1:39:59

1:39:59

Today on the podcast, we are back with a film deep dive discussing Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse! In these podcasts, we try to cover different aspects of the film and story to understand more deeply what worked or didn't from as many angles as possible. This podcast is a bit special for Erich, as Spider-Man has been his favorite super for as …

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Joe Jackowski on Apotheosis and The Parodies 1:50:30

2+ y ago1:50:30

1:50:30

Today on the podcast, we are joined by Joe Jackowski. Joe is a Marine Corps veteran and current graduate student at Vanderbilt University in the Cognitive Psychology in Context program. His primary interest is meaning in life, which broadly extends to problems in ethics, A.I., and culture. In this episode, we sit down to discuss his first long-form…

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Joey and Drew on Few Will Hunt 48:51

2+ y ago48:51

48:51

"Everybody wants to eat, but Few Will Hunt." Today on the podcast with Joey Bowen and Drew Beech, co-founders of the apparel brand and community Few Will Hunt. Joey and Drew spent their daily commutes through the gritty streets of Philadelphia on the phone for a year straight. On these calls, they talked about business and life — especially the tre…

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Jordan Criss on Fulfillment, Imposter Syndrome, Procrastination and Eulogy Virtues 1:38:12

2+ y ago1:38:12

1:38:12

On this podcast episode, Jordan Criss returns for a long-overdue discussion on Life and Fulfillment. We start the conversation with the idea that most people are actively disengaged with what they spend most of their time. From there, we cover imposter syndrome, healthy habits, procrastination, and focusing on what matters most to you regardless of…

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Karlee Owens on Natural Movement, Spirals and Listening to Your Body 1:06:35

2+ y ago1:06:35

1:06:35

Coach Karlee is a movement coach who teaches her athletes to move their bodies as nature designed: strong, secure, pain-free, and forward. Utilizing slow-motion video assessment, she can assess, address, and correct pattern errors that are causing pain and/or hindering performance goals. With a background in soccer, endurance running, and strength …

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The Last of Us Episode 9 | TV Show Breakdown 1:12:41

2+ y ago1:12:41

1:12:41

Finally, we come to the season finale of The Last of Us, season 1. Since starting our breakdowns, we have been excited about this very conversation. Would viewers of the show be challenged with the ending as much as the game challenged audiences over a decade ago? Would audiences be given enough to connect with to feel for Joel's position in the st…

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Gina Iaffaldano on Life Lessons Overcoming Guillain Barre Syndrome 1:17:24

2+ y ago1:17:24

1:17:24

Gina Iaffaldano is a legal operations professional, writer, and everyday athlete. She has recently relocated back to the Chicagoland area. She is working on her first book, Little Gifts, which covers much of her experience with overcoming Guillain-Barré syndrome - a rare autoimmune syndrome that caused her to be neurologically paralyzed. Gina is tw…

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The Last of Us Episode 7 and 8 | TV Show Breakdown 1:14:30

2+ y ago1:14:30

1:14:30

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episodes seven and eight. Episode seven dives into more of Ellie's past and gives the audience a view of what Ellie said when it wasn't the first time she had used a gun. Living in this world is harsh for even the youngest people. There isn't much hope to spare. Picking up with e…

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Zach Wagner on Non Toxic Masculinity 1:10:47

2+ y ago1:10:47

1:10:47

ZACHARY WAGNER is a writer, researcher, ordained minister––thinker of thoughts and feeler of feelings. Originally from the Chicagoland area, he now lives in Oxford, England, where he is pursuing a DPhil (PhD) in New Testament studies at Keble College, University of Oxford. He also serves as the editorial director of the Center for Pastor Theologian…

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The Last of Us Episode 6 | TV Show Breakdown 40:18

2+ y ago40:18

40:18

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episode six. Episode six continues the journey of Ellie and Joel, but they have moved much further west with a time jump of three months. We find them in the snowy mountains as they are nearing where Tommy's last location. Ellie and Joel are stopped on the road by a group of peop…

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James Calmese Jr on Music Promoting and Betting on Yourself 1:23:41

2+ y ago1:23:41

1:23:41

James Calmese Jr. Is a WIU graduate who works in financing and in shipping. Being the founder of Good Vibes, M.I. Edition LLC, a live entertainment entity involved in the underground music scene, the early stages of the music business process, and sports is what keeps him going in the day-to-day. His artist has amassed streams of 15,000 or more. Wo…

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The Last of Us Episode 5 | TV Show Breakdown 1:02:24

2+ y ago1:02:24

1:02:24

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episode five. Episode five continues by giving us the backstory on Sam and Henry shortly after the FEDRA are overthrown in the city. From that, we catch up to the present, where the previous episode left off with Joel and Ellie. From there, we are given more information on Kathle…

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Matt Vincent on Shedding Past Identities and Routine is the Fast Track to Dying Quicker 1:22:23

3y ago1:22:23

1:22:23

Matt Vincent is a strength athlete, two-time Highland Games World Champion, and founder of HVIII Brand Goods, now rebranded to Not Dead Yet. Through his travels, Matt was lucky enough to spend time with exceptional people chasing strength, fulfillment, and personal growth in every imaginable way. In Matt's first book, Training Lab, he spelled out t…

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The Last of Us Episode 4 | TV Show Breakdown 50:38

3y ago50:38

50:38

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episode four. Episode four continues the story of Joel and Ellie. We get some relationship-building while on the road. Still, they take a detour into Kanas city. Very quickly, something is off inside the city without FEDRA presence, and bandits attack them. Joel and Ellie fight t…

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The Psychology of Moral Reasoning Part 2 1:33:38

3y ago1:33:38

1:33:38

In this podcast episode, we continue our discussion on moral reasoning. After laying out the groundwork in the first part of this discussion, we dive deeper into moral foundations theory and break down the characteristics of each foundation. Finally, we round out the discussion closing on the wisdom process. If you missed part 1, you could find it …

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Last of Us Episode 3 | TV Show Breakdown 1:03:19

3y ago1:03:19

1:03:19

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episode three. Episode three is, so far, the most significant departure from what those familiar with the game will see. While Joel and Ellie are still featured in the episode, we mostly follow the lives of two other survivors, Bill and Frank. Instead of facing the grim reality t…

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The Psychology of Moral Reasoning Part 1 58:31

3y ago58:31

58:31

In this podcast episode, we sit with Joe Jackowski to discuss the foundational ideas and philosophers behind moral reasoning. Support our content on Patreon! patreon.com/feedingcurioisity Show Notes: (00:00) Intro (03:13) Lawrence Kohlberg (08:54) Elliot Turiel (10:31) Rousseau (22:19) Hobbes (32:08) Utilitarianism - Bentham (34:54) John Stewart Mi…

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The Last of Us Episode 2 | TV Show Breakdown 58:00

3y ago58:00

58:00

Today's podcast continues our breakdown of The Last of Us on HBO with episode two! We discussed what we liked, what had changed from the game, and other details that caught our attention while watching the episode. Support our content on Patreon! patreon.com/feedingcurioisity Last of Us Breakdowns Playlist https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Os_DdLZFt1…

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In Pursuit of Goggins 12:16

3y ago12:16

12:16

For many, David Goggins is seen as inhuman or, as he has said, uncommon amongst the uncommon, sure that is true. But I look at it a little differently. If he can forge himself into something extraordinary, why can't I? Why can't the person next to me? In this video, I discuss what it means to be In Pursuit of Your Greatness. Support our content on …

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The Last of Us Episode 1 | TV Show Breakdown 1:00:00

3y ago1:00:00

1:00:00

In today's episode, we are starting our breakdown of the newly released series The Last of Us based on the game of the same name! For those who want to remain entirely spoiler-free, this is not for you, but given the game has been out for some time, we assume most casual audiences will be curious enough to learn more about the source material. In t…

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Film Deep Dive | The Whale 1:10:48

3y ago1:10:48

1:10:48

In this week's episode, we break down the film The Whale. The film is directed by Darren Aronofsky, written by Samuel D. Hunter, and stars Brendan Fraser. The film is an emotional rollercoaster and leaves all of us feeling something. At the movie's core, we tried to determine whether this was a tragedy or a comedy. The result will vary for everyone…

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Film Deep Dive | Everything Everywhere All At Once 58:18

3y ago58:18

58:18

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by Brandon Wenzel to discuss the film Everything Everywhere All At Once. The film was written and directed by Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. Starring Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, and Key Huy Quan. We had recorded this conversation earlier in the year, and since then, the film has gone on to be nominate…

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Reflecting on 2022 1:37:06

3y ago1:37:06

1:37:06

In this episode, Joe and Erich reflect on 2022 and their direction in 2023. For a portion of this conversation, we take a step back to go over how the previous few years felt stagnant to lay the groundwork for the reemergence that started in late 2022. Around the middle of 2022, starting live streams with Joe since he moved to Nashville began to sh…

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AI Art and Ethics 1:13:46

3y ago1:13:46

1:13:46

In today's podcast, we are continuing our discussion on AI art. We covered more technical ground last week but barely scratched the surface of what people are worried about on the ethical side of this new technology. As with any new technology, there will be growing pains, and in the world of art, many living artists have voiced concern about being…

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Discussing Generative Art 1:33:27

3y ago1:33:27

1:33:27

Today's podcast will discuss generative art, such as Mid Journey. Over the last few months, generative art has exploded with DALL-E 2, followed by more open platforms. But, as with any new technology, there are a lot of grey areas to explore. Join us as we explore the hopes, dreams, and problems of new technology!…

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Book Discussion | Icarus Fallen 1:30:43

3y ago1:30:43

1:30:43

Today's podcast will discuss the book Icarus Fallen: Search For Meaning In An Uncertain World by Chantal Delsol. An overview of the book: It would be difficult to find a more perceptive description of Western man and the world he now inhabits than that provided by Chantal Delsol in Icarus Fallen: The Search for Meaning in an Uncertain World. With s…

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Cyberpunk and How Do We Imagine Something Better Than Dystopia 1:42:37

3y ago1:42:37

1:42:37

On today's podcast, we are back talking cyberpunk! We've been discussing it off the air and realized we had more to say on a broader level than what we've talked about from Edgerunner's show. What do you think a positive world with technology looks like? How does humanity positively explore possible futures? In contrast to all of the negative varie…

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Dr. Justin Ternes on Breathwork, Learning and Coaching 1:00:48

3y ago1:00:48

1:00:48

Dr. Justin Ternes is a Doctor of Physiotherapy, Breath & Mindset Coach, and Human Performance Optimizer. His work is centered on three main pillars: mind/body, breath work, and performance. Dr. Ternes is passionate about helping high-level humans take their mental health and wellness to another level! He regularly hosts men's groups and breath work…

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Book Discussion | Range By David Epstein 1:34:49

3y ago1:34:49

1:34:49

In today's podcast, we are diving into the book Range by David Epstein! David Epstein examined the world's most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters, and scientists. He discovered that generalists, not specialists, are primed to excel in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable. Generalists often fi…

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Philosophy Deep Dive | Nietzsche on Resentment 1:16:45

3y ago1:16:45

1:16:45

In today's podcast, we are diving into Nietzsche on Resentment. The book we will explore is On the Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche.

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Deep Dive | Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 1:30:54

3y ago1:30:54

1:30:54

Hello everyone. And welcome back to another episode of feeding curiosity. In today's episode, we dive deeply into Netflix anime Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. I think we talked about many things that are important to us from the elements of the story, like myth and what they represent in the hero's journey or, rather, a failed hero's journey. On my end of…

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Book Discussion | Immoderate Greatness: Why Civilizations Fail 1:12:22

3y ago1:12:22

1:12:22

On this podcast, we discuss the book Immoderate Greatness by William Ophuls. Immoderate Greatness explains how a civilization’s sheer magnitude conspires against it to cause downfall. Cultures are hard-wired for self-destruction. They travel an arc from initial success to terminal decay and ultimate collapse due to intrinsic, inescapable biophysica…

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Top Gun and The State of Hollywood 59:22

3+ y ago59:22

59:22

In today's episode, We start with a discussion around Top Gun Maverick. And why this film, in particular, feels like a breath of fresh air compared to other sequels. Many sequels over the last decade, but a lack of the essence of what made the original films massive successes that have shaped our culture. The criticism we have of other films, like …

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Ed Latimore on Stress, Complexity of Technology, Scientific Thinking and Improving Your Writing 1:31:30

3+ y ago1:31:30

1:31:30

In this episode, we are joined by Ed Latimore. Ed is a former professional heavyweight boxer, a competitive chess player, and a bestselling author. His writing focuses on self-development, realizing your potential, and sobriety—all of which he approaches from personal experience, overcoming poverty and addiction. Check out his blog at edlatimore.co…

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Film Deep Dive - The Batman 1:01:25

3+ y ago1:01:25

1:01:25

In this episode, Erich and Jordan discuss Matt Reeves' The Batman. We discussed what we enjoyed about different aspects of the film and compared it to its other superhero films. Naturally, we can't escape comparing it to the Nolan trilogy of Batman films. Overall, we enjoyed the film and looked forward to what comes next for this version of Batman.…

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Deep Dive: Euphoria - Art is Meant to be Dangerous 1:03:50

3+ y ago1:03:50

1:03:50

Erich and Jordan dive into the HBO show Euphoria in this episode. We covered themes, techniques, and character movements we enjoyed about the show. We also give our take based on the controversy the show has faced since it deals with mature topics set in high school. We believe that art in any more form allows for the audience to confront complex i…

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The Oscars, Spiderman and Euphoria (#173) 1:29:48

4y ago1:29:48

1:29:48

In today's episode, I am joined by returning friend and guest Jordan Criss, and as always, we have a great conversation centered around Jordan's interests, film, and TV. Of course, that means it's Oscar season, so we dive into the current controversy around the Oscars. Mainly with Spider-Man No Way Home, not having as many awards as one might expec…

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The Philosophy of Feeding Curiosity 11:00

4y ago11:00

11:00

Reflecting on four years of podcasting and creating content for Feeding Curiosity! I wanted to share how I think about this project and how it impacts my life and those I connect with! Thank you to everyone who's been a part of this project for the past four years. For more content head to: https://feedingcuriosity.net/ Find the Blueprint here: htt…

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Creative Risk Taking, Information Overload, Meaning, and Find Your Frontier 2:02:40

4y ago2:02:40

2:02:40

I'm joined by returning guests and friend Joe Jackowski in today's episode. First, we go deep on all of the psychological and philosophical ideas Joe has explored. Then, we discuss the role consciousness and identity play in forming society, where society may be heading, and what we can do to steer this society in the right direction. Show Notes: (…

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The Emperor's Peace | Foundation Breakdown Ep. 1 59:51

4y ago59:51

59:51

Erich and Jordan begin a new breakdown series for the Apple TV exclusive Foundation. The Foundation was originally a science fiction book written by Isaac Asimov. The series was initially published as a trilogy from 1951-53. It won the one-time Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series" in 1966. The books recount the fall of a vast interstellar empire a…

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Sarry Ibrahim on Financial Habits, Systems and Getting Started 36:41

4y ago36:41

36:41

Sarry Ibrahim founded Financial Asset Protection after learning about the Infinite Banking Concept (also known as the Bank On Yourself Concept). He saw this as an opportunity to save retirement accounts, real estate properties, and businesses from market failures and other risks. Sarry believes the number 1 rule to your money is to make sure it liv…

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The House of Enlightenment (Episode 8) | See Breakdown 1:10:16

4y ago1:10:16

1:10:16

We discuss the final episode of the first season of See! We discuss the season's climaxes and the setup into season two. Overall, the first season of See, is an incredibly rewarding watch from the action and dialogue that provide a rich canvas to explore the characters' stories. Show Notes: (00:53) Meeting the father (02:44) Modern Comforts (04:57)…

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See Breakdown | Episode 7 The Lavender Road 1:03:16

4y ago1:03:16

1:03:16

In this episode, we see all the threads beginning to come together. Maghra and Queen Kane connect after being rescued by Tamacti Jun. We see a new side of Maghra as a ruler that will likely be contested by Queen Kane in the future. Tamacti Jun, the ever dutiful soldier, earns even more points as a loyal general and fighter. Baba Voss and the childr…