This episode discusses my 'big idea', namely how we should set up a self-sustaining 'Utopia Village' (c) of businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, learning centres, community groups, social enterprises and local service providers, why they can help with impoverished areas and towns, and how they can be used to raise the aspirations of communities who are feeling left behind. 

There will be an accompanying white paper in the connected Forum post at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/5f449ede-62b4-4cc7-95e6-c2df744b5e30

* Note, the word true is used advisedly due to the deep rabbit hole you could go down discussing the Human Fly!

From my new book, 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', comes this discussion on Principle 12: The Round Table Principle! In it we look at what the Principle entails, how and why it both a cultural and technological process, and what benefits it can bring to any organisation, large or small. 

Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/cf66f126-76d9-436a-a916-1818b73f85b5 

Based on a chapter in my new book You 2.0: Build Yourself Better (out November 1st), this episode discusses why it is important to never blindly follow the opinions of experts, and instead you should also conduct your own research so you at least know the basics about the area you need to make a decision in. 

You can also join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/6c4559b1-24a7-454f-9d8b-70a5d9e60115

Please note there is an occasional pop in the first couple of minutes of t...

Concluding our two part look at how technology is changing the face of education, we look at the increasing role of science and technology to help level up learning opportunities around the world.

Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/06d4d518-3791-45cc-b567-19031c6b6615

With rapid advances in A.I., Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality solutions, Western world countries are poised to reap the benefits of bringing the future into classrooms. We look at some of the major schemes, policies, advantages and disadvantages of rolling out these technology into the classroom, but also look at the limiting effects of a narrow curriculum focus on students once they leave the educational years.

There will be a follow up to this episode soon looking at the roll out of technology in other regions of the world, but for now, you can join in the...

They were 'the NEW House of Ideas' who burst on the scene in 1975 with a full range of colour comics, black & white magazines and supporting merchandise. They challenged the status quo, changed the rules and... imploded within a year. Join guest Chris Dingsdale and I as we reminisce and discuss the launch, the titles, the fun, the chaos, the reasons for failure and the legacy of the company that is about to relaunch with a new range of titles, movies and merchandise! 

Join in the discussion and see some of the covers at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2...

Time to nerd out with a look at three ground-breaking consoles/home entertainment systems that failed to engage despite being backed by major companies. What were they? Why did they fail? What is their legacy? Find out as we discuss the fate of the 3Do, the CDTV and the CD-i whilst also sharing personal experiences of the platforms. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/838bf239-a676-4269-94fb-34835fa30ac9 and tell us your experiences with them and your views on why they didn't succeed.

PS The Atlas Comics at 50 will...

In our concluding look at the impact of social media, we examine how it has changed societal and behavioural norms, and wonders what can we do to bring social media technology back to what it was originally intended to do without stifling debate and activism (a question which will need further consideration at a later date). 

In the meantime, join in the discussion about social media with your own suggestions of how we boost the positive benefits of social media whilst negating the serious downsides social media platforms have propagated in the last decade. You can do this a...

In this episode we look at the impact of social media on mental health and give some little hacks to help protect yourself or people you know, from the constant attentions that social media platforms seem to demand of their users.

Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/8bec9001-a30d-414e-8e97-dde4896e0eeb

This week we take a look at social media and the impact it has had on communication, privacy and safety. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/ebd6967d-6b69-4756-935c-1c7a7842e6b2

Please forgive the scratchy voice, I was under the weather when I recorded it.

We've discussed consciousness as part of our Philosophy 101 episodes, but we've specifically referred to 'the hard question of consciousness' in our recent episodes on panpsychism and Many Worlds Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, so this delves into what the question is, why consciousness is proving so hard to define as a process, and what are the important thought experiments that can help us at least define the question. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/42369516-ab07-4f08-8f81-cf6c1a081ed1

After a few heavy subjects, it's now time for a total nerdfest episode as I journey through adventures with Atari computers, look at how the company began, give my assessments as to why Atari failed, and explain why I still have and use my STe, Mega STe, TT and Falcon computers to this day! And all without rubbishing the Amiga! You probably won't have a clue as to why that last bit is important (well, not unless you give this episode a listen), so let's just say I did warn both Atari and Commodore, and their fans, that things needed...

Reality is not certain. Actions and events have consequences that may create a universe for every possible outcome. And you exist in many of these realities all at once. This is the conclusion that Hugh Everett III made in the mid 1950s and faced so much scorn and resistance that he left the field. Today, the idea of MWI is taken as plainly self-evident. Why? What is MWI really and how does it challenge our notions of reality and identity? This is what we discuss in this mind-blowing episode of ThinkWORKS!

Come and join the discussion at https...

We all think we understand what time is, but both Relativity and Quantum Mechanics suggest that our understanding of Time may need to be more flexible! This episode considers the nature of time, asks is it possible to travel through it and if so how, and looks at how theories from Einstein and Hawking challenge what we perceive is reality.

Come and join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/72d95e7d-709b-4547-9418-4026c7010735

Warning: this episode can seriously mess with your mind! In the 1999 movie 'The Mummy' Imhotep says 'Death is only the beginning!' and a new paper in Psychology Today seems to agree with him! Death, it seems, may just be a transition from one conscious reality to another and so this episode discusses the reasoning behind this bold claim and explains some of the principles behind it.

Join the the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/23d90a64-2b52-4af1-9047-21246e25b025

From my forthcoming book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', I discuss the Gaia Principle, the idea that we are part of a virtual eco-system, and whether in work, professional, personal or community life, we should try to break free of silo-thinking to deliver greater benefits whilst minimising the negative effects of change.

Join the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/afab3e08-9a94-4b8f-b23d-6b7525c471c5

Panpsychism is a philosophical theory that suggests that consciousness is a fundamental and ubiquitous feature of the universe. According to this view, all matter, regardless of its complexity, possesses some form of consciousness or experiential quality. This means that even the smallest particles, like atoms or subatomic particles, have a form of consciousness.  This idea challenges the traditional dualistic view that separates mind and matter, proposing instead that mind is a fundamental aspect of reality and is a fascinating concept that has gained attention in recent years as a potential way to bridge the gap between the physical and mental a...

This episode we talk about some of the developments and concepts being put forward that could improve transportation, reduce congestion and the environmental impact of transportation, but also considers the potential negative impacts of these developments. And stay tuned for an anecdotal discussion of a possible futuristic technology that might be here sooner than you think...

Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/8484f4f5-d40f-49a4-b0e8-99728359931c

In another of our 'Unexplained Mysteries' series, we take a look at the field of cryptozoology, and consider the existence or not of such creatures as Bigfoot, the Yeti, the Chupacabra and the Loch Ness Monster as we discuss why humans are still fascinated with the whole idea of monsters out there in the wild. 

Join in the discussion at  https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/be9f1988-4e28-4166-9fb1-46a351acd3b9 and tell us your favourite unknown creatures and theories!

The Unexpected Guest is the 13th Principle in my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better' and is all about how you must ask on a regular basis a simple but powerful question: What event, no matter how unlikely, should it occur destroy my professional or private life (or product or service or business or community and so on) literally overnight? Think Nokia and Apple, Tran-Pennsylvania Rail and the Ford Truck, the Vinyl Industry and the CD. These weren't incremental or even huge improvements in their respective industries, but a brand new way of doing things that literally changed the rules...

This week we discuss one of the Principles from my new book, 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', namely Principle 5: The Kill All Monsters Principle! In other words, don't wait for the monstrous looking egg to turn into a Godzilla-size monstrosity that stamps all over your life or business! Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/9c3e7b1b-ee25-4c21-997f-f796c81878a7

Few areas of the planet create a feeling of dread and hold a fascination of the mysterious, as much as an area of sea known as 'The Bermuda Triangle', a place where ships and planes noted for generations strange occurrences, fires in the sky and  disappearances that left no wreckage or survivors. This episode, part of our series within a series, looks at the Unexplained Mystery surrounding this seemingly deadly area of sea. talks about some of the more famous disappearances, discusses the various theories out forward, and attempts to try and make sense of it all.

Come o...

As we conclude our look at Indian & Eastern philosophy, we discuss discourses and thought experiments around consciousness & awareness, and bring the whole field to the modern world and how these ideas apply to AI and the growing search to create Artificial Consciousness.

Comment at Discussion - 2: ThinkWorks & VoiceWorks | darreninform with you own thoughts on this subject!

Many people think that Einstein was just a simple scientist who went about formulating the laws that govern the Universe, but he was so much more than that. Apart from being the man who had the greatest single impact on the advancement of our understanding of the laws that govern the physical universe, Einstein was also a philosopher king! From my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', we look at how some of his sayings can be powerfully applied to your life. 

Join in the discussion at Comment Here For ThinkWORKS 59 The Einstein Principle! | darreninform

We continue our mini-series on Eastern & Indian philosophies and consider the nature of reality in Hindu, Buddhist & Taoist teachings, and how they are both similar to and differ from Plato's Allegory of the Cave.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 58 Indian & Eastern Philosophy 101 Part 5 The Nature of Reality | darreninform

Few mysteries have captured the American psyche more than that of the mysterious disappearance of a whole colony of English settlers in 1590, leaving behind only one word, Croatoan, which was carved into a log within the deserted colony. It was only natural therefore, that your hosts, Darren Smithson & Steve Lowe, discuss the story behind the colony, possible causes of its disappearance, and the way that the very words Roanoke and Croatoan have become synonymous with mysterious and sinister events.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 57 Presents Unexplained Mysteries 2 The Colony That Vanished | darreninform

Continuing our series on Eastern & Indian philosophies, this edition of ThinkWORKS examines the Hindu & Buddhist discourses on the nature of identity and continuity, which offer both complimentary AND competing visions on the nature of self in a reality that is either permanently fixed OR constantly changing. Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 56 Indian & Eastern Philosophy Part 4 Identity & Continuity | darreninform 

The Buddhist beliefs about the 4 Noble Truths and the 8-fold Noble Path form the foundation of a deeply profound philosophical doctrine with parallels and connections to other Asian philosophies. This episode explains what the Noble Truths are and how they can be achieved by following the 8-fold Noble Path. Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 55 Eastern & Indian Philosophy Part 3 The 4 Noble Truths and The 8-fold Noble Path! | darreninform and apply some of the thinking to your own life.

Continuing our introduction on the principle themes of Indian and Eastern philosophy, this episodes discusses some more of the considerations we need to have before we delve properly into their key philosophical discourses on the nature of reality, truth and enlightenment.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 54 Eastern & Indian Philosophy An Introduction Part 2 | darreninform

At last, we pick up the threads of our Philosophy 101 by looking at the traditions put forward in Indian and Eastern philosophy. Part 1 discusses the main tracts of their philosophies and compares and contrasts them with the themes put forward in modern Western philosophies, all by way of introducing this new series of episodes.

Join in the discussion at  Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 53 Eastern Philosophy 101 Part 1. | darreninform   and let us know which philosophical tracts from the East you would like us to discuss. 

His gruesome murders have gripped the psyche of humanity for generations, with detectives both professional and amateur spending tens of years trying to discover just who was Jack The Ripper. Join ThinkWORKS host Darren Smithson and regular contributor Steve Lowe as they present the first in a 'series within a series', as ThinkWORKS becomes 'Unexplained Mysteries' to discuss the horror of this infamous murderous rampage, present some of the key suspects, and look at the tragic lives of the victims.

Give us your opinions on the identity of The Ripper, suggest his possible motives and also put forward...

If we accept that science and technology will continue to develop new frontiers across all aspects of our life and work, what ethical frameworks should we insist are developed to protect and serve the wider humanity? This episode picks up from episode 50s discussion of the near future. Add you own view to Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 51 The 50 Year Horizon: An Epilogue! | darreninform

Looking to the edge of what is predictable before accuracy starts to fall away, this episode discusses the idea of 'the 50 year horizon', the impact of Arthur C Clarke, the visionary who really give this concept traction, and attempts to make some predictions about scientific and technological advances over the coming 50 years.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 50: The 50 Year Horizon! | darreninform

A plan without the strategies needed to achieve the goal of the plan, is a document without a purpose! This episode discusses one of the ideas in my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', and explains how best to employ necessary strategies for managing you work, personal life or projects. 

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 49 Strategy Wins Every Time! | darreninform

Since its publication in 1897, Bram Stoker's Dracula has both horrified and inspired countless generations and numerous adaptations across all media types, from film, TV, music and comics, to plays and new books. But 'Dracula' also spoke to the fears and anxieties of its Victorian audience, and provides a lens into a world seemingly still locked in those fears. This episode discusses the Count and his long shadow across time and media.

You can join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 48 The Enduring Legacy of Dracula and Why The Count Provides a Lens on The World T...

Why do monsters fascinate us? What makes humans create legends, stories and myths around Krakens, Sirens, Mummies, Zombies, Vampires and Aliens? This episode delves into the deep psychological need humans have to both explain unexplainable events AND live cathartically through chills and thrills. Join in the discussion and share with us your favourite monster and why it is, at  Comment Here for ThinkWorks Episode 47 The Monster Motif! | darreninform

Wait, don't run away! This episode we take a look at why you are good at maths but probably don't know it, and how maths shapes everything around us from days of yore to the furthest reaches of space. All that and we have a quick introduction to the famous equation e=mc2 (energy = mass x the speed of light squared).

If you want to know how to take control of your mathematics in life, tell us in the Forum at  Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 46 Mathematics and The Universal Language (and why you shouldn't be afraid of i...

We all joke about making executive decisions, but the reality is that we’ve created a climate of fear that most definitely dissuades us from making key decisions just in case we make the wrong one. In effect we’ve got into a state of learned helplessness. You see like any muscle, decision making has to be done consistently other wise the ability to make decisions becomes weak and flabby. This episode looks into how you can develop that muscle and use decision making to the full.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 45 Flex Your...

Most 'vision' statements are uninspiring, made for boardrooms and shareholders, and do little to inspire the workforce, or indeed, entrepreneurs and small business owners. And remarkably, few people have a clearly defined vision for their personal life either. 

This episode explains why having a properly crafted vision is important, and how best to create one that is inspiring- whether for your professional or personal lives!

Add you vision statements to the Forum discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-on-thinkworks-episode-44-the-vision-thing-why-having-a-vision-is-important-and-how-to-craft-one-that-works and we'll see if we can work together to improve them!

In this episode of ThinkWORKS, we explore the transformative power of the question "How can I help?" Inspired by "New Amsterdam's" Dr. Max Goodwin, we delve into real-life examples where this simple inquiry sparks innovation, deepens empathy, and fosters meaningful collaboration. Join us as we uncover how adopting this philosophy can enrich lives, build stronger connections, and create impactful change in personal and professional realms.

Join in the discussion at  Comment Here for Episode 43: How Can I Help? | darreninform 

It's episode 42, so there is only one topic I could discuss and that's the ultimate answer to life, the universe and everything, which of course we all know is 42! And as part of that we're going to discuss the genius that is Douglas Adams and the impact of 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'.

Join in the discussion and tell us your favourite lines from Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, or your thoughts of what is the ultimate question for life, the universe & everything at ThinkWORKS Episode 42: Life, The Universe, & Everything. | darreninform

With my new book, 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better' out in the spring giving a full blueprint for planning, setting and delivering on professional and personal goals, this episode introduces the powerful art of setting and achieving goals. Goals serve as a compass that guides our decisions and actions, providing direction and clarity, allowing us to focus our efforts on what truly matters. 

Find out the how, why and who of goals in this episode and join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 41 The Power Of Goals. | darreninform

Did you know that when you make your New Year resolutions, you're actually making commitments to the Gods? This short episodes explains how the ritual of New Tear Resolutions came into being and also recaps ways that you can make sure your resolutions for 2025 stick. 

Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-40-why-new-year-resolutions-are-commitments-to-the-gods and even add your own resolutions to the post and keep coming back and updating us on progress!

In our fourth and final part of our look at popular Conspiracy Theories, guest Steve Lowe and I look at the Illuminati, the Hollow Moon, and the Reptilians and how the three theories have come to be linked!

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 39 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 4 | darreninform

This week we present part 3 of our look at Conspiracy Theories (with the fourth and final part next week) as myself and guest Steve Lowe take a quick look at Covid 19 and then go deep on Area 51, the crash at Roswell and the alien autopsy footage!

Add your comments here and tell us your favourite conspiracy theory and why at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 38 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 3 | darreninform

This episode I show you how to turn your upcoming New Year Resolutions into exciting, adventurous goals that will survive beyond February 2025, and how a free 30 Day Challenge can springboard you into 2025 with the best possible start!

Join in the discussion and get the links to the Challenge and Journal at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-37-turn-your-new-year-resolutions-into-resilient-goals-for-2025

As we continue our mini-series on conspiracy theories, guest Steve Lowe and I take a look at the moon landing, the 911 attacks and contrails and explain some of the various conspiracy theories surrounding these events and try to unpick some of the key arguments. Join in the discussion at Comment here for ThinkWORKS Episode 36 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 2 | darreninform

The first of several episodes that look at conspiracy theories examines why they hold such sway in the human psyche. Join your host Darren Smithson with guest Steve Lowe as they look at the psychology behind and impact of Conspiracy Theories in modern society. Join in the discussion at Comment here for ThinkWORKS Episode 35 Conspiracy Theories 101 Part 1 Why We Want To Believe! | darreninform

Are we just holograms created by a boundary universe or even living inside a future version of The Sims? This episode we delve into the fascination world of M branes, N space and de Sitter universes!

Comment with your brain-frying theories at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 34 The Holographic Universe - Peering Beyond Reality's Illusion | darreninform!

In this episode I discuss how a 'trick' we do when we go see a blockbuster movie (i.e. suspending our disbelief at how man in bare feet can single-handledly defeat a well trained army of terrorists) can be used consciously to help you achieve something big in your personal or professional life.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 33: Suspend Your Disbelief! and be sent a free chapter of my new book! | darreninform and be sent a FREE chapter of my new book YOU 2.0: Build Yourself Better.

"We live in a society exquisitely dependent on science & technology, in which hardly anyone knows anything about science & technology."- Carl Sagan

This week's ThinkWORKS discusses the meaning of Carl's statement and ponders on just what can be done to narrow the gap. 

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 32 Bridging The Gap! | darreninform

One of my heroes, and the man who started me on my journey into the world of science, and in particular, Space Exploration, is Carl Sagan, the man behind the TV series 'Cosmos'. What many people probably don't know is that outside of the hit series, he was a giant in the fields of planetary science and space exploration. This episode discusses his impact on the popularisation of science, his impact on space exploration and how his poetical use of words captured the imagination of budding scientists everywhere.

Comment at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksforum/thinkworks-discussion/comment-here-for-thinkworks-episode-31-carl-sagan-a-stellar-legacy-in-science-and-culture...

As healthcare technology embraces new frontiers, we look at what we can expect and what ethical and regulatory considerations need to be made as a drive toward the digitalisation of services pushes ahead. Make your comments with your thoughts about this area at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Episode 30 The Future of Healthcare Technology | darreninform

Well, a so-called update from Microsoft ruined my planned episode for this week, so I am borrowing from a feature I do on my 'The Wednesday Supplement' radio show, called NewsRant. But there's a serious message, it's time we brought the IT companies to heel... Give me your horror stories of bad IT updates, data privacy concerns or breaches and so on and we'll take consolation in our shared mishaps by commenting at Comment Here on ThinkWORKS Episode 29 Emergency Recording on It's Time to Bring IT Companies to Heel | darreninform

Fear of public speaking regularly tops even death in Top Fears surveys, but sooner or later, we're all going to need to present in some form or another. Here's some tips, hacks and strategies for handling those nerves and doing a talk or presentation in style.

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 28 Tackling Presentation Fear- Hacks for Unforgettable Talks: Comment Here! | darreninform

As we reach 6 months of ThinkWORKS, we pause and take a look at upcoming episodes and give a flavour of concepts and ideas arising from my upcoming book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', as well as some other themes around science, culture, philosophy and even conspiracy theories. Add your comments and suggestions for other topics to discuss as ThinkWORKS heads towards its first birthday in the Forum at ThinkWORKS Episode 27: Thinks To Come! | darreninform

Across science, business, religion, spirituality, art and nature, the number 6 keeps turning up with ubiquitous significance. In this episode we run through just some of the ways the number is important and seems to have almost magical properties in our reality.

Join the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 26: The Magic of Six! | darreninform

We've all been there. There's a job that needs doing, but what's the best way? Lots of options, each with benefits and each with compromises. So what do we do, we do some more research... just in case!

But the just on case becomes postponement and deadline slippage and eventually time-crash! Welcome to the world of paralysing analysis.

This episode discusses what it is, how to spot it and what to do when you realise it's happening to you!

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 25: The Paralysis of Analysis | darreninform

In the third and final part* of our Philosophy 101 discussions, we look at the meaning of life, and bring the question right up to date as we also consider what it means in an age of AI and the whole science of artificial consciousness. Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Philosophy 101 Parts 1-3. | darreninform

* We will be doing a future episode that looks at Eastern & Asian philosophy.

Continuing our look at some of the most famous Western philosophy tracts (a special episode on Eastern & Asian philosophy is being planned) as this week we look at Utilitarianism and the Runaway Trolley Problem. Join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Philosophy 101 Parts 1-3. | darreninform

In the first part of our 3 part Philosophy 101, we discuss The Ship of Theseus, The Prisoners in a Cave, and  'Cognito, Ergo Sum' (I Think Therefore I Am), tackling as they do themes of identity, reality and consciousness, and relating them to modern life. 

You can join in the discussion at Comment Here for ThinkWORKS Philosophy 101 Part 1. | darreninform

What hobby do you have, or would like to have, that you feel really passionate about?
How could you relate that to your business or work? This episode explores how something you are passionate about could actually have uses in other aspects of your life, especially your business or job.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for Episode 21 on Why Having a Hobby is Good for Business. | darreninform

For this episode we're going to look at the significance of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', with a focus on the history of the novel, its impact on popular culture, and offer an exploration of fear psychology and the monster motif.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here for The Enduring Legacy of Frankenstein. | darreninform

In the 1970s, a typical citizen might expect to encounter an 500 adverts per day. Today, it is over 5000 per day! And that's just adverts. Not news alerts, social media notifications, email notifications, SMS messages and so on. There is no wonder many of us feel our brains are about to explode. This episode looks at why the constant barrage of 'stuff' affects our ability to be effective, what the effects of this are, and the benefits of having a regular digital detox- along with hacks for how you can achieve this.

Join in the discussion at Comment Here f...

Join Darren and guest Steve Lowe as they discuss the enduring popularity of football (soccer to our American 7 Australian cousins) and how it provides a vehicle for the instinctive need to part of a tribe or feudal community. Join in the discussion at Comment here for Episode 18: Football & Tribalism. | darreninform

So, do you ever have that nagging feeling that you may have bitten off more than you can chew, that maybe that you're not as competent as you thought you were, or worse, that others think you are? Do you wonder if maybe you don’t deserve your success and put it down to luck that you are? And do you fear that sooner or later, you’ll be exposed as a 'fraud.'?  If you've ever doubted your abilities, this episode is for you.

Join in the conversation at ThinkWORKS Episode 17: The Curse of Imposter Syndrome! | darreninform

In this episode we look at the enduring impact of Star Trek on popular culture and its influence on various aspects of society, culture and the hope of a future in which humanity has grown up. Yes, I'm letting my inner geek out for this week!

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 16: The Lasting Legacy of Star Trek! | darreninform

Comment at ThinkWORKS Episode 15: Designing Your Perfect Day! | darreninform

It's Such A Perfect Day... the famous line from a famous song, but perfect days rarely happen if you don't at least give the day a framework. There may be no such thing as perfection, but having your ideal day designed as a framework to hang your activities on is certainly possible.  In this episode I discuss why designing your ideal day is a great idea, as well as give tips and hacks about how to go about it. 

Do you experience strange symptoms that baffle your doctors? You might be dealing with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Join us as we delve into the mysterious world of FND, uncover the reasons behind these baffling symptoms, and explore why it often takes years to get a proper diagnosis. Tune in to understand how your brain might be working against you and learn essential insights for navigating this complex condition.

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 14: When Your Brain Betrays You | darreninform

Read the blog at https://www.darreninform.com/thinkworksblog

In a world that often glorifies perfection and flawless outcomes, it's essential to recognize the inherent value of progress over the elusive pursuit of perfection. In this episode, with returning guest Steve Lowe, we discuss some key reasons why prioritising progress is more beneficial for both personal and business growth and success.

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 13: Choose Progress Over Perfection! | darreninform

Journaling is a powerful tool that can have a profound impact on various aspects of your life, ranging from increased productivity all the way through to helping improve mental health and robustness. In this episode, Darren Smithson discusses how journaling helps, how best to use journals and even tells you what journaling system he uses. Join in the discussion on the Forum atThinkWORKS Episode 12: The Art of Journaling And Why It's Important! | darreninform

The concept of a 'kitchen cabinet' in a metaphorical sense refers to a trusted group of advisors or confidants who provide valuable insights, guidance, wisdom, and perspective on important decisions and challenges. They serve as a personal board of directors or inner circle. So surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial.

Join in the discussion at The Importance of Choosing The Right Kitchen Cabinet | darreninform

Saying no is essential for maintaining balance, setting boundaries, and fostering respect in both personal and professional relationships. It empowers you to focus on what truly matters and leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. This episode of ThinkWORKS explains why this is so, and gives hacks on how you can say no elegantly.

Add your "should have said/should say no" situations and join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 10: Why You Should Learn The Art of Saying No | darreninform

This episode explores the importance of mastering our thought processes for mental well-being and success. We discuss the critical nature of consciously choosing the influences that shape our thoughts and the strategies to prevent fear and doubt from dominating our mindset, which can undermine our confidence. Join in the discussion in the Forum at darreninform.com/forum

In this episode, we're delving into the captivating realm of data analytics and its pivotal role in decision-making. In an era where data reigns supreme, businesses and organizations are presented with an abundance of information that holds the key to unlocking insights and driving strategic decisions. We'll  discuss how data analytics is reshaping the landscape of decision-making processes.

Add you own views to the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 8 The Role of Data Analytics In Decision Making | darreninform

Music exerts a profound influence on humans, captivating our emotions, thoughts, and physical responses in unique ways. In this episode, I am joined by special guest Steve Lowe to discuss the power of music and our belief that it is the magic of the universe. We also delve into rock music and its reflection of the human condition, and explore the metaphorical and scientific idea that the universe itself may be akin to a giant guitar!

Join in the discussion at ThinkWORKS Episode 7: Adventures in Music: Why Music Is The Magic of This Universe (or; The Whole Universe i...

In this episode, we're diving into a topic of utmost importance: the impact of science and technology on sustainability. As we face pressing environmental challenges, it's crucial to explore how scientific advancements and technological innovations can contribute to a more sustainable future, and we'll examine real life examples of projects that have sustainability as a core principle.

This episode, we're delving into the essential elements of success: effective time management, goal setting, and prioritisation. Time management is not just about scheduling tasks; it's about optimising your most valuable resource—time. When coupled with strategic goal setting, you create a roadmap for your aspirations, turning dreams into achievable milestones. Prioritisation acts as the compass, guiding you towards what truly matters and ensuring that your efforts align with your objectives. We'll discuss how these three pillars form a powerful trinity that can elevate your personal and professional endeavours to new heights and give some life hacks on how you ca...

In this episode, we're diving into a thought-provoking topic: the ethical implications of emerging technologies. We live in an era of rapid technological advancement. From genetic engineering to artificial intelligence to biotechnology, these technologies are reshaping our world in profound ways. But with these advancements come complex ethical dilemmas. So. as science and technology continue to advance, it's crucial to explore the impact of these technologies on our society and discuss the ethical dilemmas they present. 

This episode, we're diving into a topic that has been on everyone's minds: the future of work in the age of automation. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, it's crucial to understand how it will shape the job market and workforce dynamics, so we explore what lies ahead, try to navigate the future of work successfully, and discuss strategies for lifelong learning, continuous skill development, and embracing a growth mindset. Additionally, we'll explore the role of education and policy in preparing the workforce for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

In this episode, we're diving into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, or AI, and exploring its potential impact- positive and negative- on both business and our home lives, with real life examples.

There is a Forum post for you to comment in with your own views on the topic at ThinkWORKS Episode 2: The Developing Role of AI In Modern Life. | darreninform

My new weekly series of podcasts is basically an invitation to find other thinkers and discuss with them ideas about, as Douglas Adams famously coined, life, the universe & everything. This episode is simply an introduction to what follows.