The ever-shifting sands of our minds
A good-faith conversation podcast, hosted by Erik C. Olson, about how our deepest values and beliefs shift—and how to recalibrate when they do. Launching September 2026.
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calibrate
/ˈkæl əˌbreɪt/
verb, used with object
- to determine, check, or rectify the graduation of (any instrument giving quantitative measurements)
- to divide or mark with gradations, graduations, or other indexes of degree, quantity, etc., as on a thermometer, measuring cup, or the like
- to determine the correct range for (an artillery gun, mortar, etc.) by observing where the fired projectile hits
- to plan or devise (something) carefully so as to have a precise use, application, appeal, etc.
via dictionary.com
Why "calibrate?" The vast majority of us (it only takes one exception to invalidate "all," and on a planet of over 8,000,000,000 people, the probability for any one outlier approaches 100%) hold certain values as absolutes, and others as always in flux. So it's important to calibrate and recalibrate and figure out not only where we're at, but where we're headed—and how to handle when our most concrete values shift below our feet.
What is this...where am I...who am I?
You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll agree, you'll yell into the void.
I've spent nearly 30 years building software—much of it in high-stakes corners with thin safety nets, where people rarely see the danger until it's far too late. I've also spent years in marketing, which means I know how persuasion works from the inside—so trust me a little less, not more. Two very different educations in how easily smart people fool themselves, and get fooled.
I've never taken any of that lightly…even while I don't take myself seriously. This is me sharing the good, the bad, and (let's be honest) a fair bit of the ugly…and hoping we all recalibrate as we go.
Like a Hex-Shot of Espresso
Yes, you read that right. Six shots.
Not Even a Cup
I have this running theory that I'm like a hex-shot of espresso, taken neat or iced: some people prefer a classic cup o' joe, some prefer tea, and some prefer decaf. Some want an extra shot in their liquid dessert; all are equally valid. I'm not for everyone, and that's okay…who knows, with a few listens you might be ordering a "hex on ice" the next time you hit the café.
The Double
Americans drink, on average, 285mg worth of caffeine in coffee each day. [1] A double shot doesn't even make it halfway there…
The Quad
Just barely under the daily average; the caffeine isn't what makes drinkers hold back at this point…
The Hex
More caffeine than even the most extreme energy drinks, yet still below the FDA's recommended daily maximum. Think fast!
The habit the whole show runs on
We steelman before we argue
The internet builds straw men. We build the strongest version of the other side—then test that.
A steelman is the strongest, most honest version of an argument—often stronger than the people who hold it manage to make it. Every episode is built on it, and there's a repeatable method: the Steelman Protocol.
Tune in
Where to listen...or watch
Wherever you already keep your feed. Same conversation, your player of choice.
Coming Sept 2026
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