Afleveringen

  • Show Notes

    Lisa Falco, a data scientist, digital health expert, and leading figure in women’s health technology, joins me to unpack the science of fertility and reproductive health. With a PhD in Biomedical Imaging and a wealth of experience in FemTech, including her role as Director of Data Science at Ava, Lisa has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to help women better understand their bodies.

    Expect to learn the data-driven realities of conception, including the impact of age, stress, and mental health on fertility, and whether knowing too much—like declining egg counts or miscarriage risks—can create counterproductive stress. Lisa shares insights on the transformations women experience during pregnancy and addresses common myths about conception, such as whether timing, position, or even lying with your feet in the air can improve your chances.

    This is part two of my conversation with Lisa.

    CONTACT LISA

    LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/lisa-falco-jon

    Website:

    https://www.lisafalco.com/

    BOOK AUTHORED BY LISA

    https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59096069-go-figure

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    or

    Email me [email protected]

    TRANSCRIPT

    00:00 Introduction (not timestamped)

    02:00 The surprising lack of knowledge about the female body and fertility

    06:00 How wearable technology can track ovulation and predict fertility

    10:30 Can you use ovulation tracking as a natural form of contraception?

    13:30 The role of age in fertility and how chances of conception decline over time

    18:00 Does stress and mental health impact the ability to conceive?

  • Lisa Falco, a data scientist, digital health expert, and leading figure in women’s health technology, joins me to unpack the science of fertility and reproductive health. With a PhD in Biomedical Imaging and a wealth of experience in FemTech, including her role as Director of Data Science at Ava, Lisa has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to help women better understand their bodies.

    Expect to learn the data-driven realities of conception, including the impact of age, stress, and mental health on fertility, and whether knowing too much—like declining egg counts or miscarriage risks—can create counterproductive stress. Lisa shares insights on the transformations women experience during pregnancy and addresses common myths about conception, such as whether timing, position, or even lying with your feet in the air can improve your chances.

    This is part one of my conversation with Lisa, exploring the phases of reproductive health and debunking myths with science. Stay tuned for part two, where we dive deeper into this fascinating topic.

    CONTACT LISA

    LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/lisa-falco-jon

    Website:https://www.lisafalco.com/

    BOOK AUTHORED BY LISA

    https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59096069-go-figure

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    or

    Email me [email protected]

    TIMESTAMPS

    Part 1: Understanding Fertility and Pregnancy

    00:00 – Introduction (not timestamped)

    02:00 – The surprising lack of knowledge about the female body and fertility

    06:00 – How wearable technology can track ovulation and predict fertility

    10:30 – Can you use ovulation tracking as a natural form of contraception?

    13:30 – The role of age in fertility and how chances of conception decline over time

    18:00 – Does stress and mental health impact the ability to conceive?

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  • In this episode, Philip reflects on his journey as the first doctor to administer a legal, voluntary, lethal injection and the emotional and professional challenges that followed. We discuss the ongoing Swiss federal investigation into the first use of the Sarco Pod in Schaffhausen, the role of mental health and age in assisted suicide decisions, and the broader ethical and societal implications.

    Expect to learn about The Peaceful Pill Handbook and its impact, the state of global assisted dying laws, and why Switzerland is at the center of this debate. This conversation is a thought-provoking exploration of human rights, autonomy, and the future of end-of-life choices.




    CONTACT PHILIP

    https://x.com/philipnitschke

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-nitschke-73a2a318

    [email protected]




    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/
    or
    [email protected]




    TIMESTAMPS

    (00:00) The Sarco Pod: A New Approach to Assisted Suicide

    (07:30) Legal and Ethical Challenges
    (14:57) Future of Assisted Suicide Laws
    (18:48) Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections

  • In this episode, Philip reflects on his journey as the first doctor to administer a legal, voluntary, lethal injection and the emotional and professional challenges that followed. We discuss the ongoing Swiss federal investigation into the first use of the Sarco Pod in Schaffhausen, the role of mental health and age in assisted suicide decisions, and the broader ethical and societal implications.

    Expect to learn about The Peaceful Pill Handbook and its impact, the state of global assisted dying laws, and why Switzerland is at the center of this debate. This conversation is a thought-provoking exploration of human rights, autonomy, and the future of end-of-life choices.




    CONTACT PHILIP

    https://x.com/philipnitschke

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-nitschke-73a2a318

    [email protected]




    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/
    or
    [email protected]




    (00:00) The Accidental Advocate: A Journey Begins
    (00:47) Facing Opposition: The Struggle with the Medical Profession
    (02:38) The First Legal Voluntary Lethal Injection
    (03:14) Challenges and Failures: The Story of Max Bell
    (09:02) Breaking Ranks: The Case of Bob Dent
    (22:04) The Peaceful Pill Handbook: Controversy and Impact
    (30:25) The Comfort of Having Control of Your Life
    (31:46) Age and Mental Capacity in Assisted Suicide
    (34:19) The Debate Over Public Information On How To Suicide and Its Consequences

  • Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack the economic forces shaping Switzerland and the world. With his expertise in trade, debt, and policy reform, Stefan explores how small countries like Switzerland navigate a rapidly changing global economy.

    Expect to learn why free trade agreements with countries like China and India are critical for Switzerland, the potential fallout of U.S. tariffs, and what lessons can be drawn from Argentina’s experiment with extreme government reduction. Stefan also dives into the challenges of managing national debt, how Switzerland maintains its economic stability, and his surprising take on Bitcoin’s role in the future of finance. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about global economics and Switzerland’s unique approach.

    CONTACT STEFAN

    https://stefanlegge.com/contact/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/global-debt-stefan-legge/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Understanding government debt and its implications

    06:00 Lessons from the Eurozone debt crisis and its impact

    12:00 Argentina’s experiment with extreme government reduction

    18:00 The role of Swiss policies in managing government spending

    24:00 The importance of Switzerland’s stable currency

    29:00 Stefan’s thoughts on Bitcoin and its potential future

  • Stefan Legge, Vice Director and Head of Tax & Trade Policy at the University of St. Gallen, joins me to unpack the economic forces shaping Switzerland and the world. With his expertise in trade, debt, and policy reform, Stefan explores how small countries like Switzerland navigate a rapidly changing global economy.

    Expect to learn why free trade agreements with countries like China and India are critical for Switzerland, the potential fallout of U.S. tariffs, and what lessons can be drawn from Argentina’s experiment with extreme government reduction. Stefan also dives into the challenges of managing national debt, how Switzerland maintains its economic stability, and his surprising take on Bitcoin’s role in the future of finance. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about global economics and Switzerland’s unique approach.

    CONTACT STEFAN

    https://stefanlegge.com/contact/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/global-debt-stefan-legge/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Introduction and defining trade relationships

    05:30 Switzerland’s free trade agreements and their importance

    12:00 Challenges in establishing a free trade agreement with the U.S.

    16:00 Potential impacts of U.S. tariffs on Swiss goods

    22:00 Key Swiss exports and their global demand

    28:00 The significance of pharmaceutical exports to the U.S.

  • Caroline Lustenberger, a leading sleep researcher with a PhD in neuroscience from ETH Zurich, joins me to uncover the truths about sleep and its impact on our health and well-being. With her deep expertise, Caroline explores the science behind how and why we sleep, debunks common myths, and provides practical advice for improving sleep quality.

    Expect to learn why the “8-hour rule” doesn’t apply to everyone, how modern habits like screen time and caffeine affect your sleep, and the role of light and temperature in creating the ideal sleep environment. Caroline also shares insights on the effectiveness of sleep supplements and trackers, managing early morning wake-ups, and her groundbreaking work with the Herencia initiative, which connects sleep research to Alzheimer’s prevention. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you rest better and wake up refreshed.

    CONTACT CAROLINE

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-lustenberger-891493219/

    https://sleepfulness.ch/

    BOOK AUTHORED BY CAROLINE

    ⁠Dieses Buch ist zum Einschlafen⁠

    MORE ABOU THE HERENCIA INITIATIVE

    https://herencia-global.org/who-we-are/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    TIMESTAMPS

    (00:00) Sleep supplements and their limitations
    (04:00) Managing early morning wake-ups and understanding sleep debt
    (08:00) The impact of naps on overall sleep quality
    (10:00) The role of sleep trackers and emerging sleep research
    (14:00) The Herencia initiative and its groundbreaking approach to Alzheimer’s

  • Caroline Lustenberger, a leading sleep researcher with a PhD in neuroscience from ETH Zurich, joins me to uncover the truths about sleep and its impact on our health and well-being. With her deep expertise, Caroline explores the science behind how and why we sleep, debunks common myths, and provides practical advice for improving sleep quality.

    Expect to learn why the “8-hour rule” doesn’t apply to everyone, how modern habits like screen time and caffeine affect your sleep, and the role of light and temperature in creating the ideal sleep environment. Caroline also shares insights on the effectiveness of sleep supplements and trackers, managing early morning wake-ups, and her groundbreaking work with the Herencia initiative, which connects sleep research to Alzheimer’s prevention. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you rest better and wake up refreshed.

    CONTACT CAROLINE

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-lustenberger-891493219/

    https://sleepfulness.ch/

    BOOK AUTHORED BY CAROLINE

    ⁠⁠Dieses Buch ist zum Einschlafen⁠

    MORE ABOUT THE HERENCIA INITIATIVE

    https://herencia-global.org/who-we-are/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Common misconceptions about sleep

    05:00 Individual sleep needs and the myth of 8 hours

    12:30 Changes in sleep patterns as we age

    18:00 Techniques for falling asleep and managing sleep challenges

    25:00 How to create an ideal sleep environment

  • Annemarie BĂŒttner, Lead of Climate Risk Solutions at Swiss Re, joins me to explore how businesses and communities can adapt to the growing threats of climate change. With her expertise in climate risk modeling and real-world case studies, Annemarie sheds light on the tangible impacts of climate risks and the strategies companies can adopt to build resilience.

    Expect to learn how climate risk modeling works, the surprising ways natural disasters can ripple through global supply chains, and what steps companies and governments are taking to mitigate these risks. Annemarie also shares insights into how climate change is reshaping Switzerland’s urban planning and her advice for preparing for a more uncertain future.

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/global-climate-risks-annemarie-buttner/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Introduction 03:00 Climate risk explained: how natural catastrophes impact businesses06:27 How climate risk modeling works and predicting future scenarios10:33 The role of regulation in driving corporate climate action15:00 Real-world examples: floods in Spain, supply chains, and climate risks for companies18:04 Switzerland’s unique risks: glaciers, landslides, and changing ski seasons26:06 Heatwaves: impacts on cities, businesses, and solutions for urban planning32:51 Optimism for the future: balancing climate risks with actionable solutions39:00 Practical advice: how individuals and companies can prepare for a changing climate

  • Jörg Sandrock, CEO of Neon , joins me for a candid conversation about shaking up Switzerland’s traditional banking landscape. As the leader of one of Switzerland’s first challenger banks, Jörg offers insights into what it takes to disrupt an industry deeply rooted in convention.

    Expect to learn why Switzerland has been slow to embrace digital banking, how Neon is navigating the balance between simplicity and innovation, the pressures and challenges of staying lean while scaling, and why Neon has chosen to focus exclusively on the Swiss market. Jörg also dives into the transformative role of generative AI in banking and shares a glimpse into Neon’s roadmap for the future.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of banking and entrepreneurship in Switzerland.

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/switzerlands-digital-banking-revolution-with-jorg-sandrock-ceo-of-neon-part-1/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    or

    Email me at [email protected]

    TIMESTAMPS

    [00:02:00] Changing Role of a CEO

    [00:05:00] The Impact of AI in Neon’s Operations

    [00:08:00] Balancing Simplicity and Innovation

    [00:14:00] Crowdfunding Success and Strategy

    [00:20:00] Competitiveness of Neon’s Rates

    [00:24:00] Neon’s Five-Year Vision

  • Jörg Sandrock, CEO of Neon, joins me for a candid conversation about shaking up Switzerland’s traditional banking landscape. As the leader of one of Switzerland’s first challenger banks, Jörg offers insights into what it takes to disrupt an industry deeply rooted in convention.

    Expect to learn why Switzerland has been slow to embrace digital banking, how Neon is navigating the balance between simplicity and innovation, the pressures and challenges of staying lean while scaling, and why Neon has chosen to focus exclusively on the Swiss market. Jörg also dives into the transformative role of generative AI in banking and shares a glimpse into Neon’s roadmap for the future.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of banking and entrepreneurship in Switzerland.

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/switzerlands-digital-banking-revolution-with-jorg-sandrock-ceo-of-neon-part-1/

    CONTACT MIKE

    https://howitticks.ch/contact-page/

    or

    Email me at [email protected]

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:09 A Day in the Life of a CEO03:04 Journey from Consulting to Startup07:50 Identifying and Solving Problems in Swiss Banking11:09 Challenges and Opportunities in Swiss Fintech17:35 Competition and Market Dynamics24:21 Impact of Major Events on Digital Banking

  • Dr. Michael Grampp is the Chief Economist and Head of Research at Deloitte Switzerland, with deep expertise in understanding economic trends and workforce dynamics. The conversation dives into the transformative role of AI in reshaping industries, Switzerland’s unique job market, and the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing economic landscape.

    Expect to learn about how generative AI is driving innovation while creating new challenges, the pros and cons of Switzerland’s diverse workforce with a high percentage of expats, how the Swiss job market compares to its European neighbours, and the potential economic hurdles Switzerland faces, including energy shortages and population growth, along with much more


    Guest contact details

    Michael Grampp LinkedIn profile

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 Introduction to Michael Grampp and the Role of a Chief Economist

    04:00 The Process of Turning Insights into Actionable Content

    09:00 Exploring the Impact of Generative AI on Businesses and Workflows

    18:30 Trends in Remote Work and Its Long-Term Implications

    26:00 Switzerland’s Unique Job Market and Economic Stability

    40:00 Challenges of Attracting Talent and Managing Labor Shortages

    47:00 The Swiss Franc’s Strength and Its Effect on the Economy

  • In this episode, I sit down with Diccon Bewes, the renowned author of Swiss Watching, Slow Train to Switzerland, and Around Switzerland in 80 Maps. Diccon takes us through Switzerland’s fascinating history, exploring what unites the country despite its linguistic and cultural diversity.

    Expect to learn about Switzerland’s unique path to neutrality, the evolution of its famous train network (originally built to cater to British tourists), and its past as a nation of mercenaries. We also dive into Swiss democracy, discussing how the federal system and frequent referendums shape the nation’s political landscape, as well as the ongoing balance between local autonomy and national unity.

    This episode is packed with insights into the history, identity, and culture that define Switzerland. Enjoy!

    ABOUT THE GUEST

    https://www.dicconbewes.com/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:14 Exploring Swiss Identity03:03 The Role of Cantons in Swiss Identity04:18 Evolution of Swiss National Symbols09:50 Swiss Train Network Development25:04 Specialization in Swiss Industries27:01 Swiss Chocolate and Coffee Innovations31:13 Switzerland's Neutrality and Mercenary History35:31 The End of Mercenary Armies37:23 Swiss Neutrality in Modern Times42:11 The Formation of the Swiss Federation46:48 The Evolution of Swiss Referendums51:34 Cultural and Political Divides in Switzerland

  • In this episode, speak with Baptiste Wicht, creator of The Poor Swiss blog, to explore the journey toward financial independence and how to optimize wealth while living in Switzerland. Baptiste shares practical advice on frugality, budgeting, and investing, providing listeners with actionable tips to take control of their finances.

    Expect to learn about Baptiste's top frugality strategies, his favorite budgeting tools, and why he believes the traditional advice of keeping a 3-6 month cash reserve might not always apply. We also dive into investment strategies, his approach to portfolio diversification, and his views on real estate vs. stocks as investment options. Lastly, we talk about the growth of The Poor Swiss blog, how Baptiste balances it with his full-time job, and how he manages to stay objective despite sponsorship opportunities.

    ABOUT BAPTISTE

    Baptiste Wicht is the mind behind The Poor Swiss, a blog dedicated to simplifying personal finance for Swiss residents. Known for his practical advice and objective product reviews, Baptiste has become a trusted voice in Switzerland’s financial space. His mission is to help others gain financial clarity and achieve their money goals through frugality, smart investments, and thoughtful planning.

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/personal-finance-the-poor-swiss/

    TIMESTAMPS

    (00:00) Starting the Financial Journey

    (03:00) From Saving 10% to 50%: How Baptiste Did It

    (08:30) Budgeting Made Simple: Tools and Strategies

    (15:00) Setting Financial Goals: Tailoring to Your Lifestyle

    (21:00) Emergency Funds: How Much Do You Really Need?

    (25:30) Investment Strategies: ETFs and Swiss Market Bias

    (31:00) Digital Banking in Switzerland: The Landscape and Challenges

    (38:00) The Evolution of “The Poor Swiss”: From Blog to LLC

    (46:00) Managing Growth: Balancing Work, Blog, and Personal Life

    (51:00) Future Aspirations for “The Poor Swiss”

  • In this episode, I sit down with Markus, spokesperson for Switzerland Tourism to explore the inner workings of Switzerland’s tourism industry. We discuss the various strategies and campaigns aimed at attracting tourists from different regions, and how the demographic of travellers to Switzerland is evolving. Markus also shares insights on what younger generations, like Gen Z, prioritize when visiting Switzerland and how that’s shaping the future of tourism.

    Expect to learn about the latest trends in travel, interesting statistics on tourists in Switzerland, how lesser-known regions in Switzerland are being promoted, how Switzerland selects its public figures as ambassadors and, of course, the iconic ad campaigns featuring Roger Federer and Hollywood stars. Enjoy!

    TRANSCRIPT

    https://howitticks.ch/podcast/swiss-tourism-marketing-markus-tschannen/

    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction and discussion on iconic Swiss ad campaigns

    03:03 - Demographic changes in tourists visiting Switzerland

    09:50 - Trends in tourism influenced by COVID-19

    18:45 - Marketing strategies and emerging markets like China and India

    25:04 - Role of Bollywood and targeted marketing in influencing tourism

    33:00 - Discussion on the challenges of promoting Switzerland internationally

    41:00 - Markus talks about Switzerland’s public transportation and its appeal to tourists

    48:00 - Strategies for managing tourist flows to lesser-known destinations

  • Alessandro Speciale is the Switzerland bureau chief for Bloomberg News. In this episode, we explore Switzerland's role in global affairs and how Switzerland navigates neutrality in global conflicts.

    Alessandro also shares his insights on how social media is changing the way people consume news, the challenges that creates for traditional news organizations, and how short news cycles impact depth and quality. Additionally, we discuss his experience covering the Vatican and how the institution has adapted to a world that is becoming increasingly secular.

    Expect to learn about Switzerland's unique geopolitical stance, the changing landscape of news media, and how the Vatican has evolved under Pope Francis. Enjoy!

  • Stephan is a Zurich-based psychotherapist and a pioneer in the emerging field of psychedelic therapy. In this episode, we delve into how psychedelics like psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD are being used to treat conditions such as PTSD and depression. Stephan shares his firsthand experiences with these substances in his practice, including the transformative effects he has witnessed in his patients. We also discuss the potential benefits of MDMA in couples therapy, the societal implications of legalizing psychedelics, and the current legal landscape in Switzerland regarding these treatments.

    Expect to learn about the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, the challenges and opportunities in integrating these substances into mainstream therapy, Stephan’s perspective on the cultural stigma surrounding psychedelics, and what the future might hold for these groundbreaking treatments, plus much more...

    TRANSCRIPThttps://howitticks.ch/podcast/psychedelic-therapy-mental-health-stephan/

    TIMESTAMPS00:00 - Introduction and Stephan’s background in psychoanalysis and early experiences with psychedelics.09:00 - Explanation of Gestalt therapy and its humanistic approach.18:00 - Stephan’s integration of psychedelics into psychotherapy and personal experiences with MDMA.27:00 - Legal framework and challenges of psychedelic therapy in Switzerland.36:00 - Discussion on the potential risks and ethical considerations of psychedelic therapy.45:00 - The role of MDMA in couples therapy and the unique benefits it offers.54:00 - Recommendations for further reading and education on psychedelic therapy.

  • Philipp Flesch is an Investment Associate at Nordic Eye Venture Capital, based in Zurich, where he specializes in identifying and supporting high-potential startups. In this episode, we dive into the world of venture capital and the strategies behind selecting startups to invest in. Philipp shares his insights on what makes a startup stand out, the red flags investors watch for, and the decision-making process behind when to invest more or exit an investment.

    Expect to learn about the tech startup scene in Zurich and Switzerland, the critical elements that venture capitalists look for in successful startups, how investors decide to support or withdraw from a venture, and Philipp’s advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding in today’s competitive market, plus much more...

  • Maarten is an international tax specialist with a wealth of experience managing the tax affairs of high-net-worth individuals and multinational corporations. The conversation delves into the complexities of global tax strategies, including why the ultra-wealthy often pay lower tax percentages than the average person and how countries compete to attract lucrative businesses.

    Expect to learn about the strategic maneuvers involved in tax planning, the comparison of tax strategies across different countries, how countries like Switzerland entice companies with attractive tax rates, and the ethical considerations surrounding global tax competition, along with much more


  • Jelena is a seasoned Talent Acquisition Professional in Zurich, with extensive experience in recruitment in a number of companies, big and small. The conversation delves into the challenges of finding the right talent in today’s competitive job market, along with the key attributes she values in potential candidates.

    Expect to learn about how you can stand out when applying for a job, whether you should use the one click submit feature of LinkedIn, the influence of cultural backgrounds on interview dynamics, how biases can affect hiring decisions, and Jelena’s perspective on whether it’s more effective to contact recruiters directly versus following traditional application processes and much more...