Podcast Summary: "Why Do We Exist? & More Than Friends: The Rise of Platonic Partners"

Something You Should Know—hosted by Mike Carruthers from OmniCast Media—delves deep into thought-provoking topics that aim to enrich listeners' lives with valuable insights and practical advice. In the May 1, 2025 episode titled "Why Do We Exist? & More Than Friends: The Rise of Platonic Partners," Carruthers explores the grand question of human existence alongside the emerging trend of platonic partnerships. The episode features expert guests Tim Colson, a professor of zoology at Oxford University, and Raina Cohen, an award-winning producer and author. Below is a comprehensive summary of the episode’s key discussions, notable quotes, and enlightening conclusions.

1. The Power of Laughter in Building Connections

Timestamp: 02:00 - 04:00

Carruthers opens the episode with a segment on social dynamics, specifically how humor can enhance personal relationships. He emphasizes that making others laugh not only elevates their mood but also fosters a deeper bond.

Notable Quote:

“Laughter releases endorphins, and endorphins make us feel good about ourselves and other people. This good feeling creates a bond between two people and creates a sense of togetherness in groups of people.” – Mike Carruthers (03:57)

Carruthers explains that women often interpret a man's ability to make them laugh as a sign of intelligence and interest, while men don't experience the same reciprocal effect. He advises using self-deprecating humor as a safe and effective way to connect without offending others.

2. Exploring the Question: Why Do We Exist?

Timestamp: 05:43 - 21:05

Guest: Tim Colson, Professor of Zoology at Oxford University and author of "The Science of Why We Exist: A History of the Universe from the Big Bang to Consciousness."

In this segment, Tim Colson delves into the scientific understanding of human existence. He outlines the remarkable sequence of events from the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago to the emergence of intelligent life on Earth.

Key Discussions:

• Scientific Progress on Existence: Colson highlights the significant advancements in science over the past century, which have shed light on the intricate processes that led to life on Earth. However, he acknowledges that many mysteries remain unsolved.

  Quote:

  “With each passing year, we're finding out a little bit more, and we have a better understanding of all the remarkable things that had to happen from the beginning of the universe 13.8 billion years ago until now.” – Tim Colson (06:02)

• Possibility of Intelligent Life Elsewhere: While Earth remains the only known cradle of intelligent life, Colson points out the vastness of the universe and the high probability that intelligent life could exist elsewhere. Yet, the sheer distances and technological limitations make communication and discovery challenging.

  Quote:

  “The universe is so incalculably vast that if we look across the whole universe, it seems probable that intelligent life evolved at least once.” – Tim Colson (07:57)

• Purpose and Determinism: Addressing the philosophical aspect, Colson discusses whether humans have an inherent purpose or if our existence is a product of chance. He presents contrasting views from scientists who argue for a deterministic universe versus those who believe in randomness influenced by quantum mechanics.

  Quote:

  “If we were to start our universe exactly the way that it formed 13.8 billion years ago, we would find that we were here, having this conversation, that exactly the same things would happen.” – Tim Colson (24:17)

• Future of Intelligent Life: Colson warns of the inevitable extinction of life on Earth due to astronomical events and environmental changes. He speculates on humanity's potential to colonize other planets, although current technological constraints make this a distant possibility.

  Quote:

  “We know that intelligent life is not going to be here forever because the Earth's not going to be here forever.” – Tim Colson (24:38)

Conclusion: Colson posits that while science provides substantial insights into why we exist, it also raises profound questions about purpose and destiny. He encourages listeners to find meaning in their lives, even if existence itself might be a cosmic accident.

3. The Emergence of Platonic Partnerships

Timestamp: 32:23 - 50:49

Guest: Raina Cohen, Award-Winning Producer and Author of "The Other Significant: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center."

In the second major segment, Cohen explores the concept of platonic partnerships—deep, committed friendships that resemble romantic relationships in their depth and commitment but remain strictly non-romantic.

Key Discussions:

• Defining Platonic Partnerships: Cohen explains that these relationships go beyond traditional friendships, involving shared life decisions, cohabitation, and mutual support without romantic involvement.

  Quote:

  “A person that you treat as a platonic partner is someone that you are moving through life with in lockstep, that you are making decisions together about where to live, maybe what jobs to take or not consider, that you are really figuring each other into your future.” – Raina Cohen (34:24)

• Prevalence and Societal Perceptions: Cohen reveals that while such relationships are more common than widely recognized, societal language and norms often obscure their existence. Terms like "best friend" or "roommate" fail to capture the depth of these partnerships.

  Quote:

  “We don't really have great language for these friendships, so it makes it really hard to know how common they are.” – Raina Cohen (32:25)

• Challenges Faced: One significant challenge is explaining these relationships to others, who may misconstrue them as romantic partnerships. Cohen shares anecdotes of friends being misinterpreted, especially among men, where platonic intimacy is often stigmatized.

  Quote:

  “Calling people family names like aunt or cousin when that's not what it is can make it really inexplicable and confusing when you're trying to tell people what a person means to you.” – Raina Cohen (48:46)

• Impact of Romantic Relationships: Introducing a romantic partner can complicate platonic partnerships. Cohen discusses scenarios where new romantic relationships either overshadow the platonic bond or, in the best cases, complement it.

  Quote:

  “With the right person, the right romantic partner, it can all become additive rather than competitive.” – Raina Cohen (42:41)

• Gender Dynamics: Cohen observes that platonic partnerships are more readily accepted among women, who often face fewer societal barriers in expressing deep emotional connections compared to men.

  Quote:

  “It was much easier for me to find women who had these friendships than men.” – Raina Cohen (42:55)

Conclusion: Platonic partnerships offer a meaningful alternative to traditional romantic relationships, providing profound companionship and support. Cohen advocates for greater recognition and language to describe these bonds, highlighting their significance in defining a fulfilling life.

4. Fascinating Facts About Sneezing

Timestamp: 50:49 - 52:33

Carruthers wraps up the episode with an engaging segment on the peculiarities of sneezing. He shares intriguing trivia that listeners might find both amusing and informative.

Key Points:

• Sneeze Mechanics: The human body has a specialized sneeze center that coordinates the muscles involved in sneezing, including those in the chest, vocal cords, throat, and belly.

• Sneezing Speed and Germ Spread: A sneeze can travel up to 100 miles per hour, dispersing approximately 100,000 germs into the air.

• Involuntary Responses: It’s impossible to sneeze with your eyes open or while asleep due to the simultaneous activation of nerves.

• Health Implications: Suppressing a sneeze can lead to built-up pressure and potential damage, reinforcing why it’s best to let it out.

Final Thoughts and Takeaways

This episode of Something You Should Know masterfully intertwines the profound question of human existence with the evolving landscape of human relationships. Through insightful conversations with experts like Tim Colson and Raina Cohen, listeners gain a deeper understanding of both our place in the universe and the diverse forms that meaningful connections can take beyond traditional romantic bonds.

Actionable Insights:

• Enhance Relationships Through Humor: Use self-deprecating humor to build rapport and make others feel at ease.

• Embrace Meaningful Friendships: Recognize and cultivate deep platonic partnerships as integral to a fulfilling life.

• Reflect on Existence: Contemplate scientific perspectives on why we exist to find personal meaning and purpose.

Whether pondering the vastness of the universe or nurturing a soulmate-like friendship, this episode provides valuable knowledge to help listeners navigate both existential questions and everyday relationships.