The Knowledge Project (January 2016) is an interview podcast hosted by Shane Parrish (Farnam Street blog founder) that explores mental models, decision-making, and wisdom through conversations with experts. The show became essential listening for thoughtful thinkers.
Format & Philosophy
Shane interviews authors, scientists, investors, and thinkers about how they think, make decisions, and avoid stupidity. Conversations are Socratic — Shane asks “why” and “how” repeatedly to uncover underlying principles.
The show focuses on timeless wisdom over current events — mental models (first principles thinking, inversion, circle of competence), decision-making frameworks, and learning strategies.
Guest Range
From Annie Duke (poker champion turned decision expert) to Naval Ravikant to Angela Duckworth to Jim Collins, guests span disciplines but share intellectual curiosity. Shane’s preparation and genuine curiosity elicit deep insights.
Farnam Street Ecosystem
The podcast extends Shane’s Farnam Street blog (started 2007), which distills wisdom from books, history, and science. The Knowledge Project became the audio arm of Farnam Street’s “master the best of what other people have already figured out” mission.
By 2023, with 150+ episodes, the show influenced how listeners think about thinking. It proved intellectual podcasting could find devoted audiences without celebrity guests or viral topics.
https://fs.blog/knowledge-project-podcast/
https://tim.blog/