fun facts
Russians are learning how to smile.
In preparation for the World Cup and the swarms of incoming tourists it brings, workers in Russia are being taught how to smile and look friendly. | learn more
book recommendations
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
Author: Matthew Walker PhD We all have a relationship with sleep. We tend to understand that sleep is important, but I think many don’t give it enough credit. This book hit me early with a profound fact: “Without exception, every animal […]
book recommendations
I Contain Multitudes: The Microbes Within Us and a Grander View of Life
Author: Ed Yong What an eye-opener this book is! Microbes like bacteria and archaea are everywhere. They live on pretty much every species and surface. And, their lives impact ours in myriad complex ways. Our species has co-evolved with many […]
book recommendations
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream
Author: Hunter S. Thompson This book is something special! With its subject matter, it’s definitely not for everybody. Those who are very conservative and/or easily offended might want to stay away. Then again, maybe this is exactly what the doctor ordered. […]
book recommendations
Solaris
Author: Stanislaw Lem This book is considered one of the classics of science fiction. No doubt about it, it’s a great book. That being said, I’m starting to believe I’m tainted in the sci-fi novel category. Because of all the […]
thoughts of food
About the last Polish restaurant in the Polish Triangle.
I’m grateful that Block Club Chicago has finally launched, bringing the local news that matters back into my life. This is about the tiny Polish restaurant a few blocks from my house, Podhalanka. I’m going to eat there soon! | learn more
under the microscope
The Mediterranean diet study retracted.
“In 2013, the New England Journal of Medicine published a landmark study that found that people put on a Mediterranean diet had a 30% lower chance of heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease than people on a low-fat […]
better doing
The value of probabilistic thinking.
“Probabilistic thinking is a useful tool to help us evaluate potential outcomes so we can make the best possible decision. Learn why it matters, and how to use this powerful mental model.” | learn more
retail therapy
How Sephora built a beauty empire to survive the retail apocalypse.
“Sephora has captured the hearts of millions of beauty shoppers and is aggressively expanding across the globe. [CB Insights] dive into how Sephora has succeeded in today’s merciless retail climate, highlighting key lessons for retailers.” | learn more
on the blockchain
How Coinbase is building a cryptocurrency empire.
This Washington Post article is a great read. “Silicon Valley startups boast about disrupting everything. Coinbase did the opposite — and is now the go-to exchange for bitcoin.” | learn more