This week Nicola and Di chat with New York Times Best-Selling Author, Johann Hari. Johann is an award-winning journalist and the author of 5 books that have sold millions of copies across the world and been translated into 40 languages. He has spent many years pulling at threads most of us don’t even realise we’re tangled in. From addiction to attention spans and depression, the invisible forces shaping how we live, Johann’s insightful words have spread all over the world, through not only his books, but his TED talks that have been viewed more than 93 million times and his appearances on some of the world’s leading podcasts and shows. 

In this episode, Johann opens up about his early childhood and gives us an insight into what life was like for him as a young boy. He talks about the difficult situations and challenges he’s been through, which gave him the personal motivation to start asking questions to understand more about some of the biggest problems of the modern world - addiction, anxiety, depression, loneliness, focus, and weight gain. 

We talk about the 9 causes of anxiety and depression, and that the Western world’s focus on treating anxiety and depression through medication alone, has missed the mark by not taking the time to address the underlying causes. Johann talks about broadening the menu of options and treatments available to people, and the importance of understanding what is causing your anxiety or depression, so you can find the appropriate treatment.

He shares some incredible stories and examples of social prescribing, and the way that working together, building community and leaning into connection are some of the most powerful antidepressants in the world.   

We also talk to Johann about his latest book, The Magic Pill, which goes through everything you need to know about GLP-1 weight loss drugs. Johann shares about his personal journey with Ozempic, the pros and the cons, and how despite getting everything he thought he wanted - losing weight and looking good, he didn’t actually feel better. 

We had so much fun chatting with Johann. Even though the topics we cover in this episode are quite serious, Johann is an exceptional story teller with a wonderful sense of humour and we laughed a lot. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

This episode is proudly supported by Montgomery Investment Management, trusted experts helping you build and protect your financial future. For further information, please contact David Buckland, Chief Executive Officer or Rhodri Taylor, Account Manager on (02) 8046 5000 or investor@montinvest.com

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