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Take a profound and distant journey. Call it Deep Travel, Immersive Travel, Slow Travel, or Vagabonding. Francis Tapon guides you to the intersection of travel, technology, and transformation. The podcast will compel you to go beyond your comfort zone. Occasionally, you‘ll also delve into the misunderstood world of cryptocurrencies.
Episodes
Saturday Mar 29, 2025
Saturday Mar 29, 2025
Charles Veley is often referred to as one of the world's most traveled people, but whether he is definitively the most traveled depends on the criteria used.
I've met Charles Veley four times, and for the fourth time, we recorded our conversation!
Watch it on YouTube
In 2005, Charles Veley founded the Most Traveled People (MTP) community. MTP divides the world into 1,500 areas. As of April 2025, Charles Veley has been to 1,322 of them! That's why he's been called the Godfather of Systematic Travel!
Download the MTP app or create a profile on MTP's website.
Charles Veley achieved notable milestones, such as becoming the youngest person to visit all 320 countries and provinces recognized by the Travelers' Century Club (TCC).
He has traveled millions of miles and taken over thousands of flights.
Feedback
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More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Friday Mar 21, 2025
Friday Mar 21, 2025
Matthew Weinzierl and Brendan Rosseau are the authors of Space to Grow: Unlocking the Final Economic Frontier. The new book explains the business side of space.
Watch all four videos about Space to Grow
I interview Brendan Rousseau, one of the two co-authors.
Brendan Rousseau shares his origin story and how he ended up at Blue Origin. He discusses why space isn't what it used to be.
Watch the Video
About Brendan Rousseau
Current Role:
-
Strategy Manager - New Glenn, Blue Origin: Focuses on orbital launch strategy.
Education:
-
Williams College: Bachelor's in Astronomy and Economics.
-
Phillips Exeter Academy: MacKenty Prize in Astronomy.
Professional Experience:
-
Harvard Business School: Teaching Fellow and Research Associate.
-
Booz Allen Hamilton: Senior Consultant supporting U.S. Space Force programs.
-
Williams College Astronomy Department: Teaching Assistant.
Publications & Awards:
-
Co-author of Space to Grow: Unlocking the Final Economic Frontier.
-
Recognized as a Payload Pioneers - 30 Under 30 and Via Satellite Rising Star.
Questions
In these podcasts, I ask them the following questions:
1. If you were an entrepreneur, what space-related startup idea would you pursue?
2. What are some of the most surprising findings from your research?
3. How do you envision the future of human habitation in space?
4. In what ways can space exploration contribute to solving Earth’s economic challenges?
5. What ethical considerations arise from expanding economic activities into space? For example, can we colonize Mars or Europa if we find non-DNA-based bacteria there?
6. What were the challenges you faced during your research?
7. How do you foresee international relations evolving as nations compete for resources in space?
8. What are your predictions for the next decade in space exploration?
9. What are your thoughts on space tourism?
10. Who is the primary audience for this book?
11. What do you hope readers take away from "Space to Grow"?
12. What's a popular vision of space exploration that probably won't happen?
13. What narratives or myths about space need to be challenged?
14. What's the percentage chance that the Kessler Syndrome catastrophe will occur in the 2020s, 2030, and beyond?
15. How can public awareness be raised regarding the importance of investing in space?
16. What advice would you give entrepreneurs looking to enter the space industry?
17. In what ways might our values shift as we become a multi-planetary species?
18. What is a rarely discussed consequence of expanding into outer space?
19. If there was one message you want readers to remember, what would it be?
20. Do you want to clarify any misconceptions about the space economy?
21. What do you wish you had mentioned in the book? Perhaps some breaking news?
22. Lastly, how can interested individuals get involved or contribute to discussions around space economics?
23. What tips do you have for co-writing a book?
24. Did you change your mind about something during your writing process?
25. Do you have action items for the audience?
Feedback
Leave anonymous audio feedback at SpeakPipe
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
Thursday Mar 13, 2025
This mini-episode is another Public Service Announcement from a grammar Nazi. It's my simple effort to clean up sloppy English.
I explain why you should never say something is:
- Very Full
- Very Unique
Perplexity.ai elaborates:
Very Full or Very Unique
This mini-episode is another Public Service Announcement from a grammar Nazi. It's my simple effort to clean up sloppy English.
I explain why you should never say something is:
- Very Full
- Very Unique
Perplexity.ai elaborates:
Why You Should Never Say Something Is "Very Full" or "Very Unique"
Very Full
-
Semantic Issue: Saying "very full" is not inherently incorrect, but it can be seen as redundant or unnecessary. "Full" typically means completely filled or occupied, so adding "very" doesn't add much meaning. However, in casual conversation, it's often used to emphasize a high degree of fullness.
-
Alternative Phrasing: Instead of "very full," you might say "completely full" or "totally full" to convey a stronger sense of being filled to capacity.
Very Unique
-
Semantic Issue: The term "unique" means being one-of-a-kind or without equal. Therefore, saying "very unique" can be seen as contradictory because something cannot be more or less unique; it is or isn't.
-
Alternative Phrasing: If you want to convey that something is unusual or exceptional, consider using phrases like "very unusual," "extremely rare," or "exceptionally special" instead of "very unique."
-
Common Usage: Despite the logical inconsistency, "very unique" is commonly used in informal contexts to mean "very unusual" or "very special." However, in formal or precise writing, it's generally advised to avoid this usage.
In summary, while "very full" might be redundant, "very unique" is more problematic due to its logical inconsistency with the definition of "unique."
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Major League Baseball, an exclusively North American league, says its best annual team is the "World Champions," having won the "World Series." No other continent is invited to compete.
Similarly, the NBA's top team is called the "World Champions," even though, once again, only North American teams can compete.
In 20 seconds, I complain about how North American leagues use the term "World Champs."
For a more in-depth analysis, consider what Perplexity.ai wrote:
The terms "World Champions" in NBA basketball and "World Series" in MLB are contentious but widely used for several reasons:
## NBA "World Champions"
1. The NBA is considered the best basketball league globally, attracting top international talent[3][7].
2. Many of the league's best players, including recent MVP winners, are international[1][3].
3. The NBA champion is viewed as the best professional team in the world, competing against global competition even though games are played in North America[3].
## MLB "World Series"
1. Baseball is widely played on three continents, with MLB being the highest level of play[3].
2. A significant percentage of MLB players are international, making it a global competition[3].
## Other Examples
1. NFL Super Bowl winners are sometimes called "World Champions," though this is more controversial due to American football's limited global reach[3].
2. The NHL's 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, featuring teams from the USA, Canada, Finland, and Sweden, has recently sparked intense international rivalry, particularly between the USA and Canada[2][5].
## Counterarguments
1. Some argue these terms are arrogant, as the teams don't actually compete against all global teams[4][6].
2. In European soccer, UEFA Champions League winners are called "European champions" despite it being the most prestigious club tournament worldwide[4].
The use of "World Champions" in American sports leagues remains a topic of debate, with proponents arguing it reflects the highest level of global competition, while critics see it as an overstatement of the leagues' international reach.
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtmP9AlXIBY
[2] https://time.com/7260170/canada-usa-hockey-4-nations-face-off-trump-recap-analysis/
[3] https://cyclonefanatic.com/forum/threads/world-champions-what-is-it-long.286599/
[4] https://nique.net/opinions/2023/09/29/world-champion-of-what/
[5] https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/43879940/usa-canada-brutal-4-nations-clash-great-event-hockey
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/438n83/why_team_that_wins_nba_championship_is_called/
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/165g923/a_lot_of_people_are_missing_the_point_of_the_term/
[8] https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/why-usa-vs-canada-matters-in-4-nations-face-off-and-how-the-rivalry-has-triggered-a-rich-new-era-in-hockey/
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Saturday Mar 01, 2025
Saturday Mar 01, 2025
Matthew Weinzierl and Brendan Rosseau are the authors of Space to Grow: Unlocking the Final Economic Frontier.
The new book explains the business side of space. I interview both authors.
Here's my interview with Matthew Weinzierl.
Watch the Video
Timeline
00:00 Intro
02:00 Low-hanging fruit
07:00 Surprises
09:30 Space is vast and crowded
11:30 Kessler Syndrome
16:30 What won't happen in space?
21:45 Moon and Mars predictions
25:21 Advice for Entrepreneurs
28:00 New news
30:00 Co-authoring advice
About Matt Weinzierl
Matt Weinzierl is Senior Associate Dean and Chair of the MBA Program at Harvard Business School, where he is the Joseph and Jacqueline Elbling Professor of Business Administration in the Business, Government, and the International Economy Unit and a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. His research focuses on the optimal design of economic policy, particularly taxation, emphasizing a better understanding of the philosophical principles underlying policy choices. Recently, he has launched a set of research projects focused on commercializing the space sector and its economic implications, viewable at www.economicsofspace.com. He has served on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Tax Expenditure Commission, the board of the National Tax Association, and on the editorial boards of Social Choice and Welfare and National Tax Journal. Before completing his PhD in economics at Harvard University in 2008, Professor Weinzierl served as the Staff Economist for Macroeconomics on the President’s Council of Economic Advisers and worked in the New York office of McKinsey & Company.
My Questions
In these podcasts, I ask them the following questions:
1. If you were an entrepreneur, what space-related startup idea would you pursue?
2. What are some of the most surprising findings from your research?
3. How do you envision the future of human habitation in space?
4. In what ways can space exploration contribute to solving Earth’s economic challenges?
5. What ethical considerations arise from expanding economic activities into space? For example, can we colonize Mars or Europa if we find non-DNA-based bacteria there?
6. What were the challenges you faced during your research?
7. How do you foresee international relations evolving as nations compete for resources in space?
8. What are your predictions for the next decade in space exploration?
9. What are your thoughts on space tourism?
10. Who is the primary audience for this book?
11. What do you hope readers take away from "Space to Grow"?
12. What's a popular vision of space exploration that probably won't happen?
13. What narratives or myths about space need to be challenged?
14. What's the percentage chance that the Kessler Syndrome catastrophe will occur in the 2020s, 2030, and beyond?
15. How can public awareness be raised regarding the importance of investing in space?
16. What advice would you give entrepreneurs looking to enter the space industry?
17. In what ways might our values shift as we become a multi-planetary species?
18. What is a rarely discussed consequence of expanding into outer space?
19. If there was one message you want readers to remember, what would it be?
20. Do you want to clarify any misconceptions about the space economy?
21. What do you wish you had mentioned in the book? Perhaps some breaking news?
22. Lastly, how can interested individuals get involved or contribute to discussions around space economics?
23. What tips do you have for co-writing a book?
24. Did you change your mind about something during your writing process?
25. Do you have action items for the audience?
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
When people win awards or are honored in some way, they often say they are "humbled" to receive the recognition.
That's absurd.
It's the wrong word.
Say you're thrilled, happy, or honored, but don't say you're humbled!
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Happy Valentine's Day 2025!
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals.
Professor Halteman mentions NutritionFacts.org.
See/Hear all four episodes with Matthew Halteman.
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
00:00 Know yourself
05:15 Negotiating and compromising
09:15 Cognitive Dissonance
Have you tried lab-grown meat?
It has many other names:
- Cultivated Meat: This term is increasingly favored as it accurately describes growing meat from animal cells in a controlled environment.
- Cell-Based Meat: This name emphasizes that the meat is derived from animal cells rather than whole animals, highlighting its scientific origins.
- Cultured Meat: Like cultivated meat, this term refers to meat produced through cellular agriculture techniques.
- Clean Meat: This term was popular among early advocates, suggesting a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional meat.
- Synthetic Meat: This name indicates that the product is artificially created, which can evoke mixed consumer reactions.
- Slaughter-Free Meat: This term appeals to ethical consumers concerned about animal welfare and the implications of traditional meat production.
Becoming vegan is easier than ever.
Consider taking baby steps.
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Lab-grown meat has many other names:
- Cultivated Meat: This term is increasingly favored as it accurately describes growing meat from animal cells in a controlled environment.
- Cell-Based Meat: This name emphasizes that the meat is derived from animal cells rather than whole animals, highlighting its scientific origins.
- Cultured Meat: Like cultivated meat, this term refers to meat produced through cellular agriculture techniques.
- Clean Meat: This term was popular among early advocates, suggesting a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional meat.
- Synthetic Meat: This name indicates that the product is artificially created, which can evoke mixed consumer reactions.
- Slaughter-Free Meat: This term appeals to ethical consumers concerned about animal welfare and the implications of traditional meat production.
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
00:00 Know yourself
05:15 Negotiating and compromising
09:15 Cognitive Dissonance
Have you tried lab-grown meat?
It has many other names:
- Cultivated Meat: This term is increasingly favored as it accurately describes growing meat from animal cells in a controlled environment.
- Cell-Based Meat: This name emphasizes that the meat is derived from animal cells rather than whole animals, highlighting its scientific origins.
- Cultured Meat: Like cultivated meat, this term refers to meat produced through cellular agriculture techniques.
- Clean Meat: This term was popular among early advocates, suggesting a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional meat.
- Synthetic Meat: This name indicates that the product is artificially created, which can evoke mixed consumer reactions.
- Slaughter-Free Meat: This term appeals to ethical consumers concerned about animal welfare and the implications of traditional meat production.
Becoming vegan is easier than ever.
Consider taking baby steps.
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Vegans have a marketing problem: they're perceived to be annoying, self-righteous, judgmental, and inflexible.
Author Matthew Halteman's book Hungry Beautiful Animals is designed to fix that perception and make veganism more appealing and less threatening.
Visit his website about Hungry Beautiful Animals.
Matthew Halteman and I discuss his book Hungry Beautiful Animals. Here's the timeline of our discussion in case you want to skip to a section.
00:00 Intro
04:30 Marketing Problem?
07:00 Practical Tips
10:00 Kindergarten Values
12:00 Abstract food
16:30 Aspirations
20:40 Fish
Watch the Video
Book review
In his excellent book "The Better Angels of Our Nature," Steven Pinker observed that humanity has become less barbarous with each passing century.
Consider the improvements to:
- Women's rights
- Gay rights
- Racism
- Slavery
- Death penalty
- Wars
- Prisons
Pinker was asked, "What will people in the 22nd century think of us? What are we doing that will seem barbarous and immoral to future humans?"
Pinker said (I'm paraphrasing), "The way almost everyone financially supports the barbarous and inhumane treatment of animals by buying and eating animals."
True.
Today's vegans are like the anti-slavery people 200 years ago: annoying, and everyone wished they would just go away.
How can vegans be more inviting? It seems like an all-or-nothing club.
This book says, "Relax. You're welcome to join the tribe."
Hungry Beautiful Animals is a vibrant and engaging exploration of veganism.
The book stands out for its joyful and inclusive approach, aiming to transform the often polarizing topic of veganism into an inviting conversation.
Halteman's writing can be too verbose, but it is filled with humor and anecdotes that resonate regardless of one's dietary choices.
### Key Themes
- Joy and Kindness: Halteman emphasizes that adopting a vegan lifestyle can be a source of joy rather than a burden. He encourages readers to view veganism as a journey filled with possibilities rather than a strict set of rules that can lead to feelings of shame or guilt.
- Personal Stories: The book is rich with anecdotes that illustrate the interconnectedness of all living beings. For instance, Halteman reflects on moments his dog (Gus), who inspired him to write this book.
- Community Focus: Halteman invites readers from all backgrounds to join in a collective movement towards kindness and compassion for animals, promoting the idea that everyone is welcome in this exploration of veganism, even if you're not hardcore, full-time.
- Practical Guidance: Beyond philosophical discussions, the book provides practical suggestions for leading a more animal-friendly life, including tips on creating pollinator-friendly habitats in one's yard.
The book offers profound insights and the ability to provoke thought without condemnation.
It is an engaging read that challenges preconceived notions about veganism while fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Overall, Hungry Beautiful Animals is a book about veganism and an invitation to live more compassionately and joyfully with all beings.
VERDICT: 9 out of 10 stars!
More info
You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com.
If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!
On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on:
My Patrons sponsored this show!
Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon
Rewards start at just $2/month!
Affiliate links
Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in.
Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free!
In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.
Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees!
For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.