The OD (Observe Dangerously) Podcast

Is behavior the highest form of communication?

We now know that as majority of the way we communicate is non-verbal. While most people consider non-verbal communication to be confined to body language, is there something that is more indicative of one's thoughts, drives, and motives than behavior? JC and B-Mic Roc OD.

Is it more useful to live in a world of possibilities or probabilities?

We've all heard the phrase "anything is possible", which is supposed to be an encouraging declaration to chase after one's most ambitious aspirations. Is this worldview, and the encouragement of said worldview, actually dangerous? Should we instead be focused on which of our goals is most probable to be achieved? JC and B-Mic Roc OD on whether we should live in a world of possibility or probability.

Is the fear of success more paralyzing than the fear of failure?

The fear of failure is one of the most debilitating phobias that exist, making even the simplest, most obvious tasks difficult to complete - or even commence - due to the possibility that one might fail. Is the fear of success, defined as the fear of living up to one's success once it has been achieved, an even more debilitating phobia? JC and B-Mic Roc OD.

What is the central institution of Western Society?

Over the past few years, there has been a lot of talk on both sides of the political aisle about the destruction of Western Institutions, either the erosion of them (the Right) or the destruction of them (the Left). However, what is the central Institution of Western Society? Is it the concept of the individual or the structure of the family? JC and B-Mic Roc OD. 

What is the Value of Black People in America? (Blackout Clip #44)

As we exit another largely uneventful observance of Black History, this week's Blackout Clip seeks to examine what the value of Black People is to America in 2023, and how Black People's inability to embrace the root issue of its problems has led to a degradation of the importance of Black History Month. Recorded 2-25-2023.

Are the Superhero stories/movies/comic books the modern day mythology?

Over the past decade, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of superheroes, both from Marvel and DC. Can we derive, through more cogent analysis than merely the entertainment value of the content, aspects of human nature similar to historical mythology? JC and B-Mic Roc OD 

Can your will overpower your belief?

As Muhammad Ali once stated "the will must be stronger than the skill". While this is true as it pertains to will vs. skill, does it remain true in the instance of will vs. belief? Is it possible for a person to will themselves to do or become something against their beliefs? JC and B-Mic Roc OD.

How far does luck take you in life?

Most people we deem successful would say that an ingredient to their success, in varying degrees, is luck? If this is true, why do we take the time to study successful people? At what point can a person no longer attribute luck to their success? JC and B-Mic Roc OD on how far luck can take you. 

What is the only antifragile identity?

Being antifragile has become a staple mindset for those who desire to optimize their performance. How does one develop an antifragile identity? Is the only way to do so by becoming a serial learner? JC and B-Mic Roc OD on how to become antifragile.

Should we believe that we are average?

As much as we wouldn't like to admit it, in many respects we are average. Should we make this a foundational belief? Is admitting that we are average the bedrock of a growth mindset? JC and B-Mic Roc OD on whether we should believe that we are average.