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Polymathic Being Podcast

Polymathic Being Podcast

Hosted by Michael Woudenberg

Episodes

204

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN

About the show

Counter intuitive insights from technology, innovation, philosophy, psychology, and more. www.polymathicbeing.com

Listen to episodes

60 recent
June 14, 202611 min

Unsettling Science

Today’s Topic is Part 11 in our Keys to Innovation series and tackles the idea of “Settled Science,” showing just how myopic and resistant to new information that idea really is. Worse, it lacks creativity and locks out innovation when consensus can no longer be challenged, preventing us from learning, unlearning, and relearning. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

June 7, 202630 min

The Two Rules of Life

Today’s topic forces us to face two rules that govern our lives. The first is evolutionary biology, and the second is soul maturation. We’ll see how ignoring these two rules creates chaos in society and how understanding, appreciating, and embracing them creates fulfillment.A quick caveat before we get going: This topic is going to make many people uncomfortable, and my intent isn’t to offend. I’m trying, without moral claims, to understand how the world works and what that means for us humans. If you feel triggered, that’s a good thing, and you should lean in on that to better understand yourself. Don’t forget to check the footnotes for references and other observations. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

May 31, 202612 min

Functional Fittness

Today’s topic introduces two amazing writers on Substack who are helping improve the health and resilience of… anyone. The focus is on Functional Fitness, which simply means being able to do what you want, when you want, without significant limitations, no matter your age, condition, or experience. You’ll discover that, when you embrace the challenge, how much potential you’ve left on the table. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

May 24, 202610 min

Embracing PolyPaths

Today’s topic builds on a new concept that resonated with me: the idea of a PolyPath as opposed to a Polymath. It’s the same thing from a different framing that I’ll exemplify as we explore the multiple paths my career has taken. It’s been both an asset and a liability, but understanding what it means can also help take the fear away from others who would like to try something new.This one is extra special as it’s my 200th essay since I started nearly four years ago! As always, I strive to keep these essays open to everyone, so please help by becoming a paid subscriber for just $24 a year. That’s just $2 a month and makes a big difference. Right now, we have 1.5% helping out. Can we get that to 3%? Use the link below for the discount:https://www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe?coupon=4f50679e&utm_content=174258440 Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

May 17, 202624 min

"I Am"

Today’s topic is another collaboration with my cousin and co-conspirator Jared Bruder. It explores the idea of embodying Christian ideals and the challenge to be Christ-like. We also explore how this same pattern exists across multiple religions and philosophies, and how it is the most rewarding place to be. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

May 10, 202617 min

Maiden, Mother, and Crone

Today’s topic looks at the importance of the unique phases of human femininity that differentiate us from much of the natural world. We’ll explore the power behind each of the three phases as well as the shadow archetypes that emerge when we don’t properly mature through those phases. At the end, you’ll get a preview of my third novel, Rebirth, where these ideas are fused together.Music credit to @meditativemind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivCOrc1HWxI Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

May 3, 202616 min

True Neurodivergence

Today’s topic introduces a new systems thinker as we collaborate to tease apart the drivers of the nerodivergent craze. In doing so, we’ll discover just how broad neurotypical really is, how that unlocks appreciation of diversity, and how the truly neurodivergent aren’t who we, or they, think they are. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

April 26, 20267 min

The Science of Good Enough

Today’s topic is Part Ten in the Keys to Innovation series, continuing to explore how to unlock your capability both personally and professionally. The Science of Good Enough helps to put aside the fear of imperfection, bracket the outcome against continuous maturation, and reduce the overall effort of success. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

April 19, 20268 min

Introspect Don't Project

Today’s topic addresses our desire to change the world as we see best while failing to change the one thing we can: ourselves. This is where these topics become so important because the real work is facing what we see in the mirror and recognizing that we have the power to fix what we see… as long as we understand the reflection. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

April 12, 20269 min

Involve, Align, and Empower

Today's topic dusts off some critical leadership lessons from my time working in Lean Six Sigma that I’ve incorporated into every job I’ve had since. It’s a critical lesson in both leadership and followership to ensure we are involved, aligned, and empowered. Get full access to Polymathic Being at www.polymathicbeing.com/subscribe

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