PODCAST
Systemically Fools, Systematically Experts.
What it is: Conversations between subject-matter experts and curious non-experts exploring complex systems, clear thinking, and what happens when expertise meets genuine curiosity.
The best way to understand systems is by seeing them where they are. Everywhere. Every episode is another new topic to learn, and new ways to understand the world.
Why it matters: It takes a real fool to ask the important questions. It takes a real expert to know they're also a fool. So we built a show around them! And complex systems, responsible technology, and how normal humans can think more clearly in a messy world too.
About the Show
What the Show Is
Concept
Learning how the world works by asking the questions most people are afraid to ask.
What the Show Is
ConceptSystemically Foolish is a podcast about learning how the world works by asking the questions most people are afraid to ask. Each episode uses systems thinking to break down everyday and complex topics through conversation, not lectures.
Format
Every episode features three roles working together:
- Host: Guides structure and applies the systems lens
- SME (Subject-Matter Expert): Brings real topic expertise—professional, academic, or lived
- Fool: Curious novice asking foundational questions
Why It Exists
The fastest way to learn systems thinking is to practice it. This show exists to make that practice accessible, funny, and useful.
Audience
Curious people who want to think more clearly in a complex, AI-shaped world.
Episode Structure
Template
How each episode flows from cold open to role-swap tease.
Episode Structure
TemplateSegments
- Cold open
- Introductions and system definition
- Fool questions
- SME explanation
- Systems lens analysis
- Application and synthesis
- Outro and role-swap tease
Pre-Call Checklist
- Confirm topic scope
- Identify examples
- Confirm logistics
Post-Production
- Edit for clarity
- Generate transcript
- Pull promo clips
Be a Guest
Call for Experts (SME)
Apply
Got real experience in a topic? We want to hear from you.
Call for Experts (SME)
ApplyWho We Want
Guests with real experience in a topic—professional, academic, lived, or deep hobbyist knowledge all count.
Topics We Cover
- Systems thinking in real-world contexts
- Design, operations, logistics, AI, culture, institutions
- Everyday systems people use but rarely understand
How to Pitch
- Name + short bio
- 3–5 topics you can speak on
- Why the topic matters
- Optional links
Email pitches to: podcast@foolish.systems
Call for Fools
Apply
Curious and willing to ask honest beginner questions? Perfect.
Call for Fools
ApplyWho This Is For
Curious people who are new to a topic and willing to ask honest beginner questions.
What You Do
- Ask naïve questions
- Interrupt politely when things don't make sense
- Help translate complexity for listeners
How to Volunteer
- Name + short bio
- Topics you'd like to be Fool for
- Topics you could later be SME for
- Quick vibe description
Email: podcast@foolish.systems
What to Expect
For Experts (SME)
Info
What happens when you join us as the subject-matter expert.
For Experts (SME)
InfoTime Commitment
- Pre-call: ~10–20 minutes
- Recording: ~60–90 minutes
Tone
- Conversational, not performative
- Clear, not jargon-heavy
- Funny, not cruel
After Recording
You'll be invited back later as the Fool on a different topic.
For Fools
Info
What happens when you join us as the curious novice.
For Fools
InfoRole Purpose
Ask honest beginner questions that surface assumptions and clarify the system.
Time Commitment
- Pre-call: ~10–20 minutes
- Recording: ~60–90 minutes
Psychological Safety
You will not be mocked. The host will guide the conversation.