Episode 203: Anxiety seems to have become a defining feature of modern life. Despite living in one of the safest and most prosperous periods in human history, rates of unease, worry and fear are rising — especially in developed nations. Why is that? And more importantly, what can each of us do to help those around us feel more secure, confident and connected?

In this thoughtful and timely episode, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the ethics of responding to fear and uncertainty — not only in ourselves, but in our families, workplaces and communities. They examine why collective anxiety appears to be growing even as actual risks decline, and they explore how disconnection and social isolation may be making fear feel even more overwhelming.

Kyte reflects on how good leaders don’t just avoid stoking unnecessary fear — they actively create environments where people feel safe, respected and useful. He explains why those three elements — safety, recognition and purpose — are key to helping people face challenges with courage. The conversation also explores the psychological concept of “free-floating” fear, which lacks a clear source yet saps energy and focus, and why courage should be cultivated not only for life-or-death scenarios but also for everyday living.

The hosts also consider the role of fear as a motivator, from the healthy pressure of deadlines to the manipulative use of fear in politics, media and even public health campaigns. Are there ethical ways to warn people about dangers without crossing the line into exploitation? Can fear ever truly inspire growth?

Episode 202: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada agree that smartphones and apps can make life more efficient, but they also worry these tools are making it harder to think deeply, reflect and create.

The hosts discuss how the constant stream of notifications, tasks and digital distractions — what some experts call “sludge” — leaves little room for quiet thought or meaningful engagement.

“More and more, we’re finding it harder to focus, be present and make room for long-term thinking,” Rada said.

Kyte points out how this pace of change, accelerated by artificial intelligence and personalized apps, can feel overwhelming. “It’s like things are just happening to us now,” he said. “And no one’s really talking about what the benefits even are anymore.”

The episode weaves together research findings, personal stories and cultural observations. The hosts reflect on how even simple actions — like turning off notifications or going for a walk without headphones — can restore some mental space and foster creative thinking.

Kyte recalls how boredom as a child often sparked imaginative games and projects. Today, he argues, kids and adults alike rarely feel bored, reaching for screens instead. “Boredom is a great impetus to creativity,” he said. “When you’re not bored, you lack the incentive to invent or explore.”

Rada also notes how the digital habits that once felt generational have become universal. In airports, waiting rooms and even family dinners, everyone — from toddlers to retirees — seems glued to a device.

Episode 201: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada dive into a virtue that’s often dismissed in modern society: gentleness.

The discussion began with a simple LinkedIn post Kyte shared about how much he’s come to value gentleness in others — particularly when reflecting on mentors, teachers and leaders who shaped his life. The post sparked numerous responses, many of which noted how rare, misunderstood or even stigmatized gentleness has become in public life.

From there, Rada and Kyte explore a wide range of questions: Why is gentleness often confused with weakness or passivity? How can it be a strength in leadership, especially during conflict? And why do we praise this quality in caregivers and teachers but rarely reward it in CEOs or elected officials?

Through personal stories and cultural observations, the episode makes the case that gentleness — far from being outdated — may be a powerful tool for creating space, building trust and de-escalating tension. The hosts discuss how the rise of social media and the push for constant self-promotion have made it harder for gentle voices to be heard, and how our cultural obsession with attention and speed often sidelines quieter virtues.

They also examine how gender expectations affect perceptions of gentleness and reflect on public figures — including Fred Rogers and Jimmy Carter — who modeled this approach in profound ways.

Listeners are invited to consider not only how they view gentleness in others but also whether it’s a trait worth cultivating in themselves.