Vpod.ai

Welcome to VPOD.ai, where tech meets insight with your hosts Mike and Susan. In this episode, we dive into the whirlwind of rumors surrounding the iPhone 18 Pro launching in 2026. From a revolutionary shrinking dynamic island achieved by hiding Face ID components under the display, to a groundbreaking variable aperture camera that mimics the human eye for stunning portraits and sharper images — these innovations promise to redefine smartphone photography.

We also explore the boldest design updates yet, including intriguing new luxury-inspired colors like burgundy and an unexpected brown shade that’s stirring debate among fans. But it’s not...

You finally get a free hour. The inbox is quiet. The couch is calling. But instead of relief, you feel anxious—maybe even guilty. Like you’re doing something wrong by sitting still.

If that sounds familiar, this episode of vpod.ai is for you.

Mike and Susan unpack why rest feels so uncomfortable for high performers and how exhaustion quietly became a status symbol. Drawing on the work of Dr. Robin Hanley Defoe, this conversation reveals that burnout isn’t a lack of discipline—it’s often the result of an identity built entirely around pro...

We live in an on-demand world. When something hurts, the instinct is simple: make it stop—fast. Pop a pill, push through the day, and deal with it later. But what if that “later” is exactly when the real damage shows up?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan unpack why the quick-fix approach to pain relief often backfires—and how masking pain can quietly make problems larger, deeper, and harder to reverse.

This conversation challenges the idea that pain is an enemy to silence. Instead, it reframes pain as a critical signal—one that r...

Most skincare routines start at the mirror—with creams, serums, and treatments designed to fix what we see on the surface. But what if the real aging process isn’t happening on your skin at all?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan unpack research from Dr. Gita Paliwal, a leading cosmetologist and plastic surgeon, that reframes skincare as a biological, inside-out process. This conversation goes beyond glow and beauty trends to explain how food directly affects the cellular structure of your skin—determining how fast it ages, sags, wrinkles, and repairs itself.

Using...

Universities are meant to be pillars of stability—gatekeepers of knowledge, engines of innovation, and pathways to opportunity. But what if that sense of permanence is an illusion?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan take a hard, unsparing look at higher education and ask a question that feels almost taboo: are universities failing the future they’re supposed to prepare us for?

Drawing directly from current research, this conversation dismantles the assumption that higher education is simply “going through a rough patch.” Instead, it reveals a system under pressure from rapid technological change...

Welcome to VPOD.AI, where we explore the vital role of childhood nutrition in shaping not just physical growth, but cognitive development and emotional resilience. Join hosts Mike and Susan as they dive into groundbreaking research revealing why feeding kids is far more than just 'fuel for the tank.' Discover how proteins act as the building blocks of a child's body and how essential nutrients like omega-3s, iron, and zinc wire the brain for learning and focus. Learn about the 'dual threat' of undernutrition and overconsumption, and the profound long-term impacts diet has on IQ, immune function...

Salt feels harmless. It’s on every table, tucked into fast food bags, sprinkled into recipes without a second thought. Most of us assume the real danger is the salt shaker—and if we’re not heavy-handed with it, we’re probably fine.

This episode of vpod.ai challenges that assumption head-on.

Mike and Susan break down why sodium isn’t just a seasoning, but a silent mechanical force inside the body—one that reshapes blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and can nearly double the risk of heart failure over time.

Using clear biology and...

We’re constantly told that home cooking is dead. That Americans have abandoned their kitchens, surrendered to takeout apps, and forgotten how to chop an onion. It’s a story repeated so often it feels like fact—but what if it’s mostly wrong?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan unpack the data, history, and cultural assumptions behind the so-called death of home cooking. Drawing on research from historian Rachel Laudan and decades of nutrition data from the University of North Carolina, they reveal a far more nuanced—and surprisingly hopeful—picture of how Americans ac...

January 2026 isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s a line in the sand. If you’re still leading with a playbook from even six months ago, this episode argues you’re already at risk.

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan break down why 2026 marks a fundamental shift in how organizations must operate to survive. Drawing on insights from Andre Pinar of C5 Capital, Dr. David Bray of the Stimson Center, and leadership strategist Ken Bant, the conversation reframes business leadership as a survival discipline in a world defined by AI acceleration, cyber warf...

Feeling exhausted has become so normal that many of us treat it like a personality trait. Busy equals productive. Tired equals successful. But what if constant exhaustion isn’t normal at all?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan unpack the real science behind chronic fatigue and explain why feeling tired all the time is often your body’s check engine light—not a character flaw.

Using current research, they break fatigue down into clear, solvable categories, revealing 12 common causes that quietly drain your energy every day. From sleep chemistry and caffeine loops to nut...

That glowing green smoothie feels like health in a cup. It’s natural. It’s virtuous. It costs $15, but it must be good for you… right?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan take apart the modern smoothie myth and reveal why your “super green vitality blast” may not be doing what you think it is—especially when it comes to blood sugar, metabolism, and dental health.

The conversation digs into the hidden science behind blending, explaining how pulverizing fruit fundamentally changes how your body processes sugar. What looks like a nutrient-packed shortcut can quickly...

What if cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and even depression weren’t separate problems at all—but symptoms of the same underlying process?

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan dive deep into chronic inflammation, the silent biological fire linked to nearly every major disease we fear. Unlike acute inflammation, which helps us heal, chronic inflammation quietly smolders for years, damaging tissues, disrupting organs, and accelerating disease long before symptoms appear.

The conversation breaks down what inflammation really is, why it turns harmful, and how modern life keeps pouring fuel on the fire.

AI promises to save us time. Every demo, every keynote, every CES headline says the same thing: let machines handle the boring stuff so humans can focus on “real thinking.” It sounds like progress. But what if removing busy work is quietly stripping away the very conditions creativity depends on?

In this episode of techdaily.ai, the hosts unpack a provocative idea: the war on busy work may actually be a war on original thought.

Fresh off CES 2026, they explore how AI-driven efficiency is reshaping how we work—and how our brains function under constant optimi...

We’ve all seen it happen. The hardest worker, the technical genius, the person carrying the team… gets passed over. Meanwhile, the promotion goes to someone who seems half as qualified but knows everyone in the office. It feels unfair. It feels broken. And it makes a lot of people quietly furious.

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan dig into why that keeps happening—and why it might not be the injustice it looks like.

They break down the ladder paradox, the idea that the skills that get you hired are not the sk...

What if everything you’ve been taught about running a business is wrong?

In this episode of the vpod.ai book review podcast, we tear into Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, a business book that doesn’t try to optimize the system—it tries to burn it down. Written by the founders of Basecamp, Rework reads less like a guide and more like a manifesto against bloated companies, endless meetings, hustle culture, and five-year plans built on fantasy.

This conversation breaks down the book’s most controversial ideas and puts them to the test...

In this episode of vpod.ai, we challenge the cultural obsession with natural talent and explore a transformative view of potential inspired by Adam Grant's book, Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things.

Do you ever feel like talent is something you're either born with or not, leaving you discouraged before you even begin? You're not alone. This episode dismantles the fixed mindset that equates success solely with innate ability. Instead, we focus on the "distance traveled"—the immense growth from where you start to where you end up—and why that measure truly matters.

Jo...

Welcome to this compelling deep dive into Ben Horowitz's seminal book, "The Hard Thing About Hard Things." In this episode, we peel back the layers of startup survival, exploring the raw, gritty realities leaders face when the dream turns into a nightmare. 

Discover why traditional business advice often falls short during crisis and how Horowitz’s warlike leadership metaphors reveal the psychological battlefield every founder must navigate. From the fierce Koryos archetype to the paradox of competence, we unravel how CEOs become filters for the toughest, most toxic decisions.

Experience the power of the struggle—the r...

Dive into a compelling exploration of Jim Collins’ classic bestseller, Good to Great, on this episode of vpod.ai. Discover why 'Good is the enemy of great' remains a powerful call to action for leaders and professionals striving for excellence. We unpack Collins’ extensive five-year research on what separates good companies from great ones, focusing on the three key disciplines: disciplined people, thought, and action.

Explore the concept of Level 5 Leadership, where humility meets relentless ambition for the company’s success rather than personal glory. Hear why getting the right people on the bus is more important than a...

Welcome to VPOD.ai's Deep Dive where we unravel the cultural and financial phenomenon of Robert T. Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad, Poor Dad." Since 1997, this book has sparked intense debates, challenging traditional views on money, work, and education.

In this episode, we explore the powerful allegory of two dads representing contrasting financial mindsets: the 'Poor Dad' with his traditional employee mentality and the 'Rich Dad' who embodies investor thinking. Discover why Kiyosaki provocatively redefines assets and liabilities based on cash flow, turning conventional wisdom on its head. Learn about the damaging cycle of lifestyle inflation and the elusive...

Welcome to VPOD.ai, where we transform everyday meals into nourishing, protein-packed powerhouses. In this episode, hosts Mike and Susan dive into 15 incredible high-protein soup recipes that redefine comfort food. Say goodbye to watery, uninspired soups and hello to hearty meals that deliver over 20 grams of protein per serving—enough to rival a steak dinner. Discover flavor-packed soups like Italian wedding soup with 44 grams of protein, creamy dairy-free chicken pot pie soup, and the intriguingly delicious slow cooker pumpkin peanut butter chicken soup that blends savory, sweet, and spice in perfect harmony.

Learn texture hacks using pearl co...

Welcome to VPOD.AI, your go-to podcast for insights that transform the way you think and decide. In this compelling episode, hosts Mike and Susan dive deep into Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman’s groundbreaking theory on how our brains operate using two distinct systems.

You’ll discover why most of your daily decisions are driven by a fast, automatic System 1 – the autopilot of the brain – and how the slower, effortful System 2 handles complex tasks but tires quickly. Through engaging examples like mental math and everyday choices, the hosts skillfully unpack how this dual-process affects everything from shopping impulses...

Discover how the fusion of education and entertainment—"edutainment"—is transforming learning in schools and the corporate world. Hosts Mike and Susan explore game-based learning, gamification, storytelling, and immersive AR/VR technologies that boost engagement, retention, and real-world performance. Learn how interactive, fun experiences activate dopamine, improve motivation, and build confidence through risk-free failure. From innovative practices in India to global market growth and future trends, this episode unpacks why blending fun with learning is the key to thriving in today's fast-paced world. Tune in to rethink your approach to training and education, and empower yourself with cutting-edge strategies desi...

Join Mike and Susan on VPOD.AI as they explore the hidden science behind workplace burnout—a pervasive challenge draining energy and reshaping brain function. Discover the WHO's official definition, the neurophysiological impact including brain structure changes, and why burnout isn’t just emotional exhaustion but a serious health concern. Learn actionable strategies to rebuild resilience through CBT, mindfulness, and organizational support.

Explore how chronic stress disrupts the HPA axis and enlarges the brain's fear center, while shrinking areas essential for decision making. Understand the critical interaction between personal traits and workplace stressors that create a perfect stor...

Discover the hidden world of grocery pricing in this eye-opening episode of VPOD.AI with Mike and Susan. We dive into how grocery apps, like Instacart, use sophisticated AI algorithms to set personalized prices, charging shoppers differently for identical items. Through controlled experiments with over 400 volunteers, evidence shows deliberate price segmentation—where apps optimize profits by testing your spending limits in real time.

Explore how retailers and tech companies collaborate to engineer this pricing strategy, the role of behavioral data, and even the use of digital shelf labels in physical stores. Learn about the implications for consumers, in...

Welcome to vpod.ai, where we dive deep into the groundbreaking science of GLP-1 weight management medications reshaping health worldwide. Join hosts Mike and Susan as they unravel the evolutionary biology driving hunger, how GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy combat obesity, and the real trade-offs including side effects, muscle loss, and emotional impacts. Discover the fascinating origin from Gila monster venom to cutting-edge weekly injections and learn medically aligned strategies for safe tapering and long-term success. Whether you're curious about the science or considering these treatments, this episode equips you with vital knowledge to navigate the complex world...

Join us in this insightful episode as we dive deep into the strategies that drive business growth and success. Discover actionable tips on effective marketing, leadership, and innovation, shared through real-world examples and expert insights. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply curious about fostering growth, this conversation offers valuable lessons to help you thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Highlights include:

Tune in to gain the tools and inspiration needed to accelerate...

Discover inspiring stories and practical insights in this episode of the StoneFly podcast, where we explore the incredible power of resilience. Join us as the host shares compelling narratives of individuals overcoming challenges, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. Through engaging conversations and expert perspectives, we dive deep into the strategies that cultivate mental strength and perseverance.

In this episode, you will learn:

Whether you're facing personal hurdles or professional obstacles, this episode offers...

Welcome to vpod.ai, where we unpack the unseen forces shaping our well-being. In this episode, Mike and Susan ask a bold but urgent question: What if your mental health struggle isn’t internal—but environmental?

For too long, the conversation around well-being has focused on personal resilience and mindset. But science is pointing us somewhere deeper: our environments—physical, social, and digital—are silently programming our moods, energy, and capacity to thrive.

In this episode, you'll explore:

Welcome to vod.ai, where we turn research into actionable insight—fast. In this powerful episode, hosts Mike and Susan tackle one of the most urgent public health issues of our time: the link between screen time, social media, and rising mental health challenges in adolescents and young adults.

Drawing from the latest longitudinal studies and large-scale data, they break down:
 • Why teens are now averaging 8.5 hours of non-educational screen time daily
 • The causal link between increased social media use and depressive symptoms
 • How passive scrolling fuels anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
 • Why direct messagi...

Always feel like you’re playing financial catch-up? You’re not alone—and chances are, you’re doing better than you think.

In this episode of vpod.ai, Mike and Susan dismantle the myth of constant financial inadequacy by walking through the six stages of financial maturity, from dependence to abundance. With surprising stats, sharp insights, and zero fluff, they reveal the psychological traps—especially comparison culture—that distort how we measure success.

You’ll learn:

Is America’s housing freeze revealing deeper cracks in consumer confidence?
In this revealing breakdown, Mike and Susan analyze the latest earnings report from the country’s largest home improvement retailer—an economic bellwether that offers real-time insight into U.S. consumer behavior, inflation fatigue, and housing market paralysis.

This episode dives into:

Is Nvidia’s record-breaking valuation actually justified?
In this Deep Dive, we go beyond the headlines and into the numbers behind Nvidia’s explosive growth, tracing its rise to a $5 trillion market cap and unpacking what’s fueling—and threatening—its momentum.

We break down:

What happens when your PC can hear, see—and act for you?
In this Deep Dive, we unpack Microsoft’s boldest move in years: the AI PC, a fundamental rethinking of how we interact with personal computers. This isn’t about adding a chatbot to Windows—it’s about creating a truly conversational, context-aware assistant that understands voice, visual context, and can even take actions on your behalf.

We explore:

Is AI really our destiny—or is it still up for design?
In this Deep Dive, we explore Humanity AI, a new $500 million initiative launched by a powerful coalition of philanthropic giants—including the Omidyar Network and MacArthur Foundation—to challenge Big Tech’s monopoly on shaping AI’s future.

This isn’t about building a rival chatbot. It’s about funding policy, ethics, advocacy, and accountability—the overlooked but critical arenas where long-term AI impacts will be decided.

We unpack:

Apple just dropped the M5 chip—and it’s not just a speed boost.
In this Deep Dive, we break down Apple’s most ambitious silicon yet, focusing on how the M5 redefines AI performance, graphics processing, and on-device power efficiency. This isn't just a generational bump. It’s a rearchitecting of how compute happens—from CPU and GPU cores to the unified memory fabric.

We unpack:

What if the next big manufacturing boom starts in your garage?
In this jam-packed Deep Dive, we explore how small-scale, hyper-specialized microfactories are disrupting global manufacturing—without needing massive capital or warehouse space. From 3D laser engraving to tortilla presses and recycled mesh scrubbers, we uncover the compact machines and niche markets that smart entrepreneurs are using to build serious businesses from home.

Here’s what we explore:

Think owning a home is the smartest way to build wealth? Think again.
In this hard-hitting episode of The Deep Dive, we challenge one of the most sacred financial beliefs in America—that buying a home is always better than renting. With fresh data, real-life case studies, and a brutally honest financial breakdown, we reveal why renting can actually make you richer, especially in today’s market.

Here’s what we unpack:

One of the biggest cybercrime busts of the decade just happened—and you probably didn’t hear about it.
In this gripping episode of The Deep Dive, we unpack the massive international takedown of a global Crime-as-a-Service operation headquartered in Latvia. What started as a SIM box scheme turned into a dark web empire—powering 49 million fake accounts, phishing rings, extortion scams, and even human smuggling.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

Teenagers. AI companions. Parental controls. Big Tech is officially on the defensive.
In this episode of The Deep Dive, we explore Meta’s newly announced parental tools for monitoring teen conversations with AI characters—tools that could shape the future of online safety for younger users.
This isn’t just another feature rollout. It’s a response to rising public pressure, high-profile lawsuits, and growing concerns about how emotionally intelligent AI companions might influence teen mental health.
Here’s what we unpack:
Meta’s October 17 announcement: What new controls are launching and when
The "kill switch"...

When does a chart build trust—and when does it quietly destroy it?
In this sharp, high-impact Deep Dive, we cut through the noise of modern business communication and explore how to earn audience confidence through clarity, creativity, and ethics. From subtle but powerful B2B campaigns to the hidden psychological pitfalls in data visualization, this episode is your blueprint for more effective messaging.

We explore: