Topic: Hedonism

A re-watch of the classic film Planes, Trains and Automobiles with children leads to a discussion on the "hedonic treadmill." This psychological concept explains why repeated exposure to a stimulus reduces its emotional impact over time. While the kids enjoyed the slapstick humor, the adult viewer found the underlying drama of the characters' struggle more resonant.

A reflection on past education reveals a failed attempt at a radio and journalism course after leaving grammar school. The speaker describes choosing college based on a sibling's promise of fun, which resulted in a period of drinking and drug use. This era coincided with the rise of British rave culture, described as a hedonistic, pre-social media time spent in pubs and clubs.