Best Sophie Schwartz Podcasts (2025)

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Analytic or Continental philosophy | Christoph Schuringa, Genia Schönbaumsfeld, Babette Babich 49:07

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22h ago49:07

49:07

The future of European thought What is analytic philosophy and what is continental philosophy? And, perhaps most importantly, does this distinction make any sense? The division between these two branches has divided Western philosophy for decades now, with the Anglo-Saxon world largely associated with the analytical school, and the European contine…

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How Words Warp Reality | Nick Enfield 32:53

5d ago32:53

32:53

Language shapes how we think, remember, and reason. But does it help us to uncover the fundamental nature of reality? Join the author of Language vs. Reality and linguistic anthropologist, Nick Enfield, as he explores why language excels at persuasion but falters at faithfully representing reality. From media spin to courtroom rhetoric, he reveals …

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TAYLOR CROWELL; Dead Last to Olympia, Humanize the Hard, Is it a Fluke?, Love your Evolution, Competitor Things 1:35:56

12d ago1:35:56

1:35:56

In today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Taylor Crowell, an online coach, and all-around bodybuilding lover. She has spent the last several years learning, growing, and evolving through every phase of this sport — from the stage to the off-season and everything in between. Her mission is to help others experience that same kind of growth—physic…

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Consciousness and psychedelics: In conversation with Rupert Sheldrake 31:33

12d ago31:33

31:33

Philosophers cannot stop talking about consciousness - what are its limits? What is it made of? What does it allow us? This podcast is part of that conversation, but from a more experimental perspective. Join biologist and researcher Rupert Sheldrake as he discusses consciousness with philosopher Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes from the lens of psychedelics.…

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The philosophy of religion and love with Alain de Botton and Alex O'Connor 26:11

15d ago26:11

26:11

Why we worship without knowing it What should be included within the remit of philosophy? Religion? Love? Hair? Join well-known public speakers and writers Alain de Botton and Alex O'Connor as they talk through what philosophy can offer us, why we should study love, and what the role of religion is in philosophy and in our lives. See Privacy Policy…

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Casual Conversations with Dr. Marcus Earle and Katie Beckham 10:31

15d ago10:31

10:31

In this conversation, Katie and Marcus explore the significance of listening to people's stories, particularly in a therapeutic context. They discuss how clients open up and share their experiences, which can be both surprising and invigorating for the listener. The emotional connection formed through these interactions is highlighted as a key aspe…

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MALLORY ENNIS; Bodybuilding and Family, Consistency over Perfection, Faith Always 1:07:53

19d ago1:07:53

1:07:53

In today's episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Mallory Ennis — a mom, business owner, and women's online wellness coach with a powerful story of resilience and faith. Mallory began competing in 2014, stepping on stage 10–15 times in just two seasons before taking an eight-year break to get married and start her family. She and her husband returned to…

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RACHEL FARGANIS; Imposter Syndrome, Adjusting Schedule for Family Balance, Focal Myositis, Grit in Uncertainty 1:15:16

26d ago1:15:16

1:15:16

In today's episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Rachel Farganis, a 40-year-old mom of two, full-time professional photographer, who lives in St. Paul, Minnesota. She is a former D1 sprinter and high jumper. After dealing with a string of autoimmune issues and becoming a mom, fitness took a bit of a backseat. But, around 2018, a fellow photographer started…

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Mazes of the mind: The philosophy of neuroscience | Iain McGilchrist, Colin Blakemore, Bryan Appleyard 47:58

28d ago47:58

47:58

Over the past decades, neuroscience has blossomed, positioning itself as a kind of master discipline over everything else. For who understands the brain surely understands all of human activity and creation? Or not? Neuroscience's reach has extended past its scientific remit and into the world of philosophy and its major questions. What is a human?…

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Vampire Lesbian Phantasmagoria 1:24:25

1M ago1:24:25

1:24:25

Katelyn and Sophie discuss Tracy Wigginton, the "Lesbian Vampire Killer," and 18th century theaters, known as Phantasmagoria. Check out our Merchandise from Bonfire For links to the sources used in this episode and more, please visit Our Website Find us on Instagram and FacebookBy Sophie Schwartz and Katelyn Hart

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In search of nothing | David Deutsch, Amanda Gefter, Lee Smolin 1:00:17

1M ago1:00:17

1:00:17

What is nothing? Can it be defined, either philosophically or scientifically? Or will the exploration of nothing bring, ultimately, to nothing? The philosophical exploration of nothingness is an ancient one, from the mysterious number zero through theological understandings of the absence of God right to modern physics and ideas of the void. Join l…

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Halloween SPECIAL | The philosophy of the apocalypse 44:25

1M ago44:25

44:25

Why are we fascinated by apocalyptic stories? Join the team at the IAI for a reading of four Halloween-themed articles, written by historian and philosopher Natalie Lawrence, professor of political philosophy Matthew Festenstein, and professor of comparative literature Florian Mussgnug. From the allure of the end times to the symbolic value of mons…

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Casual Conversations with Dr. Marcus Earle and Dr. Erin Buggy 19:48

1M ago19:48

19:48

Dr. Erin Buggy received her degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from Northern Arizona University. During her tenure as a graduate student, she regularly served as a teaching assistant for a variety of therapy, psychopathology, and ethics courses. Toggling for numerous years between student, assistant teacher, and trainee allowed Erin to dive dee…

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The importance of giving up | Adam Phillips 27:14

1M ago27:14

27:14

Einstein was called “slow” at school, J. K. Rowling collected a dozen rejections, and Walt Disney was once fired for “lacking imagination.” We love stories of perseverance—but what’s the cost of never letting go? In this conversation, psychoanalyst Adam Phillips argues that our obsession with endurance can have hidden, corrosive effects. He invites…

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Slavoj Žižek on philosophy today | The madness of reality 38:03

2M ago38:03

38:03

Slavoj Žižek is back in a new interview where he takes us through his thoughts on the role of philosophy, the future of sex, his fear and love of AI and, as always, so much more. Tune in to hear one of contemporary philosophy's most original and darkly comedic minds expose his thoughts on the present and where we are heading - though that is imposs…

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Confessions of a Fit Model Pro?! Big Announcement for 2026 10:27

2M ago10:27

10:27

This episode includes a HUGE announcement for 2026. I haven't shared this anywhere with anyone yet! I cannot wait for what's to come and figured I would throw in a little teaser from a mini off the cuff interview done with fit model pro Emily Chanel when she won her pro card at the Pittsburgh Sports Power and Fitness Festival Natural Pro Qualifier …

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How to fathom timelessness | Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes 31:23

2M ago31:23

31:23

What should time mean to us? Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes is a philosopher of mind who specialises in the thought of Alfred North Whitehead, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Benedict de Spinoza, and in fields pertaining to panpsychism and altered states of mind. In this talk, he combines insights from psychedelic experiences with an intriguing view put forward by…

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After postmodernism | Hilary Lawson, Robin van den Akker, Abby Innes, Sophie Scott-Brown 47:13

2M ago47:13

47:13

Hugely influential in the latter decades of the 20th century, postmodernism transformed many academic disciplines and culture at large. Associated with an attack on objective truth and the uniqueness of meaning, it called into question the whole edifice of knowledge which Western culture had previously glorified. But it left many lost, and in the w…

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JESSICA MCLAUGHLIN; Christian Bodybuilder?, Maximize Natural Potential, Elevate your Posing, NY Jets Dancer, Go Touch Grass 1:30:08

2M ago1:30:08

1:30:08

In today's episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Jessica McLaughlin, an active duty officer in the U.S. Air Force and former NFL Cheerleader for the New York Jets. During the 2024 season, Jessica claimed three overall NPC titles and placed 5th at the 2024 Ben Weider Natural Pro Qualifier before earning her IFBB Pro card at the 2025 North Americans. Jessica…

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The language of the unconscious: Pyschoanalysis and AI | Alenka Zupančič 29:46

2M ago29:46

29:46

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SOPHIE EDWARDS; Wellness or Bikini?, Pose with the Pros in the Twin Cities, Coach Changes, Prepping in College, Take the Off-Season 45:45

2M ago45:45

45:45

In today's episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Sophie Edwards, who began her journey in 2023 competing in Wellness before switching to Bikini in her second show. After facing last callouts at NPC Nationals, Sophie committed to a long off season, came back stronger in June 2025 to win the overall, and just two weeks later earned her Pro card with a class …

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Casual Conversations with Marcus Earle and Cristine Toel 15:22

2M ago15:22

15:22

Cristine has a nurturing, down-to-earth approach, and she is passionate about healing trauma, recognizing strengths, and developing an "I-Can" approach to living with her clients. Please take the time to listen how Cristine expresses the aura of PCS and what truly keeps her inspired. If you would like to read more about her, please visit her bio he…

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The Enlightenment is racist (and why) | Kehinde Andrews 20:38

2M ago20:38

20:38

The Enlightenment has faced a lot of criticism in recent years - its defenders and detractors often come head to head, scrambling to articulate its ultimate value or lack thereof to contemporary society. This podcast contributes to this wider debate and question facing all those interested in philosophy and politics: Are Enlightenment ideas salvage…

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Featured 2025 Olympians 12:40

2M ago12:40

12:40

Find the episodes for each of the following 2025 Olympia Athletes at www.celestial.fit/podcast OR by searching their name and 'Confessions of a Bikini Pro' on google or your favorite streaming platform :) Iulia Baba (Romania) Jordan Brannon (USA) Lauralie Chapados (Canada) Ashley Kaltwasser (USA) Adair Libbrecht (Canada) Vania Auguste (USA) Kerry S…

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Q&A with Celeste; Answering your Questions 39:18

3M ago39:18

39:18

In this special Q&A episode, I'm answering the questions you submitted after my season wrapped up. I share my honest reflections on competing, future plans, and the lessons I've learned through bodybuilding and beyond. TOPICS COVERED -Considering what I may regret -My decision to retire -Working with coach Adam -Positive lessons from bodybuilding -…

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The struggle for the good life | Massimo Pigliucci on ancient philosophy for the modern era 29:29

3M ago29:29

29:29

We all want to live the good life. But how many of us can claim to be truly content? Join philosopher and evolutionary biologist Massimo Pigliucci as he argues that pleasure, character, and a healthy dose of doubt, form the basis of the good life, and that purpose in life is crucial to realising our potential. Massimo Pigliucci is a renowned philos…

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Psychedelics and the structure of reality | Julian Baggini, Eileen Hall, and James Rucker 46:51

3M ago46:51

46:51

Truth, delusion and psychedelic reality Do psychedelics reveal hidden layers of reality, or are we simply tripping? Psychedelics are back in the cultural zeitgeist, this time as a treatment for mental health issues. However, critics argue that psychedelics only work by replacing mental illness with a distorted view of reality - but, is this an accu…

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MAJA DAHMKE; Pro at 3rd Show Ever, First Improvement Season, Post-Win Blues, Finding your Spark Again 1:02:17

3M ago1:02:17

1:02:17

In this episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Maja Dahmke, a 24-year-old natural competitor from Germany, who turned Pro in her first season! With a background in gymnastics and years of consistent gym training, she only started her bodybuilding journey one year ago. Outside of competing, she holds a bachelor's in business psychology and is currently d…

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The unconscious mind: Is the unconscious real? 48:58

3M ago48:58

48:58

The unconscious has become a well-known feature of our human lived experience since Freud. We often refer to unwanted impulses, suppressed thoughts, unconscious desires, and the like. But what IS the unconscious? Is it just an easy excuse for our behaviour? Or is it a necessary piece of what it means to be human? Join our diverse and rich panel as …

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EMMY SCHWARTZ; Almost Quitting to 5th at Pro Debut, Identity Outside of Competing, Eating Disorder Healed through Fitness, How to Keep Yourself in Check 1:29:17

3M ago1:29:17

1:29:17

In this episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Emmy Schwartz, a fitness and lifestyle coach, wife, fur mom, and the recent Ms USA. She started competing in 2017 as a form of therapy from a sever eating disorder and never looked back. She credits the sport to saving her life. She place 5th in her Pro debut at the 2025 Tahoe Pro. TOPICS COVERED -hospitali…

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A landscape of consciousness | Robert Lawrence Kuhn and Hilary Lawson 41:19

3M ago41:19

41:19

Will we ever reach a conclusive, agreed-upon theory of consciousness? Over the millennia of recorded history, countless stories, theories, and arguments have emerged to explain the origins of consciousness. And yet, here we are in 2025 - post-Plato, post-Descartes, post-scientific revolution - and still we don't understand the phenomenon of conscio…

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Will psychedelics revolutionize mental health treatment? | Matthew Johnson, Shayla Love, and Kevin Sabet 49:34

3M ago49:34

49:34

The psychedelic revolution Will LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine treatments live up to the hype? For decades, psychedelics were derided as dangerous recreational drugs; now many claim they have the potential to revolutionise the treatment of mental health. With hundreds of clinical trials now taking place, the psychedelic therapeutic market is p…

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MARISSA MCGEE; Didn't Want to Prep to Turning Pro, Loving Off-Season Living, No Perfection or Expectations, Raising Rabbits 1:19:16

3M ago1:19:16

1:19:16

In this episode, I sit down with IFBB Pro Marissa McGee, who discovered bodybuilding after her boyfriend (now husband) randomly signed up for a show in 2021. What started as curiosity quickly became passion, and after coaching herself for her first year, Marissa began working with coach Matt Greggo. In 2025, she earned her Pro card at Universe, tak…

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The illusion of separation | Jessica Frazier on the Monism of Hindu philosophy 24:39

4M ago24:39

24:39

Indian philosophy and the search for unity In our everyday lives we act as though we are all separate individuals, but is this really the case? Jessica Frazer argues that reality is ultimately unified, and that this shift in perspective can change the way we live our lives. It can help you lose your isolated ego and escape feelings of alienation fr…

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Casual Conversations with Dr. Marcus Earle and Aliza Cooper 14:04

4M ago14:04

14:04

Aliza works to meet her clients where they are, fosters a safe therapeutic environment and assists them in achieving the goals they set for themselves. She is dedicated to helping her clients make lasting change and learn how to live the lives they envision for their present and future. If you'd like to read more about Aliza, please click here.…

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Adriana Smith: Giving Birth After Death 42:36

4M ago42:36

42:36

Sophie and Katelyn discuss the death of Adriana Smith and the “birth” of her child. Check out our Merchandise from Bonfire For links to the sources used in this episode and more, please visit Our Website Find us on Instagram and FacebookBy Sophie Schwartz and Katelyn Hart

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BREE WILSON; Prep is Not As Serious as You Think, Binge Cycles, Be Happy Where you Are 1:11:38

4M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

In this episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Bree Wilson, who found bodybuilding in 2022 after meeting her now-husband, Jordan. Bree competed for the first time in 2023, where she won the overall in her debut show and, just six weeks later, stepped on stage at the Toronto Pro Supershow. That same year, she earned her Pro card at the Vancouver Pro Qualifie…

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The limits of nothingness | Peter van Inwagen 27:44

4M ago27:44

27:44

From philosophy to science, metaphysics to psychology, the idea of 'nothing' is central to the universe, existence and experience as a whole. But the nature of 'nothing' is even more bewildering than we might first imagine. Parmenides argued that non-being is impossible because thinking about nothing is still something. Join philosopher Peter van I…

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FELICIA BOTELHO; 10 Year Road to Pro, Faith and Presence, Priorities 48:52

4M ago48:52

48:52

In this episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Felicia Botelho, who began competing in 2015 and earned her Pro card at the 2025 Universe in the Masters 35+ division. Outside of bodybuilding, Felicia works full time as a medical assistant at a dermatology office, enjoys life with her boyfriend and puppy, and is working towards her personal training certifica…

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Is free will an illusion? The chemistry of freedom | Patrick Haggard, George Ellis, Jennifer Hornsby 40:10

4M ago40:10

40:10

The question of free will - and whether we have it or not - is age-old across philosophy, religion, and human thought in general. Having free will allows us to have meaning, responsibility, reward and punishment. Yet discoveries in neuroscience have put our ability to choose, outside of a set of neuronal reactions, in question. Do we have free will…

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Practical Lessons For Your First, or Next, Competition 30:47

4M ago30:47

30:47

If you're getting ready to step on stage, this episode is for you. After 16 shows over 10 years, I've learned plenty of lessons—many the hard way—that can save you time, stress, and unnecessary headaches on show day. I'm sharing practical tips to help you feel prepared and confident, from what to pack in your suitcase to how to avoid tanning disast…

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Has the world gone to Hell? | Slavoj Žižek on fascism, shame, and dirty jokes 41:11

4M ago41:11

41:11

Žižek: "Trump did what The Left couldn't" As we look around at the state of the modern world, it's very easy to get disheartened - and that's putting it lightly! From pointless wars and endless suffering to the decline of social bonds and trustworthy institutions, there really is a lot to get you down. Fortunately, maverick philosopher Slavoj Žižek…

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LAUREN ADAMS; Narcissistic Abuse, Returning to the Stage, Prioritizing Yourself, Personal Boundaries 1:28:00

4M ago1:28:00

1:28:00

In today's episode, I sit down with three-time guest IFBB Pro Lauren Adams, founder of Ascend With Us, a brand focused on posing, glam, backstage prep, and physique coaching. Lauren began competing in 2014, earned her Pro card at USAs in 2019, and is now preparing to return to the stage after a two-year break. We have a raw, honest conversation abo…

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Video games and the meaning of life | James Tartaglia 27:49

4M ago27:49

27:49

Video games are changing how we think. Many are so realistic that some argue they are becoming reality. In this talk by philosopher James Tartaglia, he uncovers the relationship between games and reality. James Tartaglia is Professor of Metaphysical Philosophy at Keele University. His latest book is Inner Space Philosophy: Why the Next Stage of Hum…

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Casual Conversations with Dr. Marcus Earle and Denise Ramsay 9:34

4M ago9:34

9:34

As a somatic experiencing practitioner (SEP), Denise encourages clients to utilize both top down (cognitive) and bottom up (somatic) processing to move past maladaptive patterns of self-protection, to facilitate a release of stress and trauma, and to gain new depths of insight. Within the safe space of the therapeutic alliance, she is able to do th…

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The philosophy of literature SPECIAL | George Orwell, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Aldous Huxley, and more 44:01

5M ago44:01

44:01

How literature helps us to understand morality, totalitarian politics, and the life of Jesus Christ. Join the team at the IAI for four articles about great, classic literature, covering world-renowned authors such as George Orwell, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Clarice Lispector, to name but a few. These articles were written by Michael Marder, Emrah Atasoy, …

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SABINA COSTEA; Never Trained to Professional Athlete, Food and Body Image Challenges, Law School & Competing, Immigrant Influence, Bikini Division Growth 1:00:01

5M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

In today's episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Sabina Costea, a 24-year-old law student based in Montreal, Canada. Raised by immigrant parents, Sabina learned early on the value of pursuing her passions and believing in what's possible through dedication. She was introduced to bodybuilding in August 2022 and stepped on stage for the first time in July 20…

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How other species challenge our idea of consciousness | Peter Godfrey-Smith 21:13

5M ago21:13

21:13

In this IAI Studio interview, philosopher and science writer Peter Godfrey-Smith explores the evolution of consciousness and the enduring mystery of the mind–body problem. Drawing on his work with octopuses and other animals, he argues that consciousness emerged gradually through increasingly complex forms of sensory-motor interaction, rather than …

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MICHELLE FERDINAND-JACQUES; How Natural Pros Qualify for the Olympia, Start Late, Competing through Loss 52:06

5M ago52:06

52:06

In today's episode, I chat with IFBB Pro Michelle Ferdinand-Jacques, a 43-year-old working mom of four, nurse practitioner, and founder of MLJ Aesthetics. Michelle began competing in June 2023 and quickly made her mark in the sport. She earned her Pro card at her second national show, the 2024 Ben Weider Naturals, and made her Pro debut at the DC P…

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Utopia and human nature | Paul Bloom 27:15

5M ago27:15

27:15

Human nature and the possibility of utopia The idea of utopia - of a perfect society devoid of suffering and inequality - is planted firmly in the human imagination and psyche. From pre-biblical times to Thomas More and communism and beyond, widely disparate groups have attempted to plan or create a utopia. But is it achievable? And if not, why not…