The speaker reflects on the changes in their brain as they age and how they are adapting to their strengths through hiring and recruiting, and also emphasizes the positive impact of being kind and happy in their community of Boston.
Manolis Kellis discusses how he's embracing the journey of aging and learning how his brain is constantly changing. He's focusing on figuring out the niches he's best adapted for while recruiting people who are best at the tasks he's not, all while shaping the journey and embracing the struggle.
Boston is an awesome place to be in across all of space and time. Being human is amazing because of all the introspections we have and the ability to appreciate the things around us.
It is said that being kind to those around us not only makes them happy, but it also benefits us by creating a positive environment. This creates a "local maximum" of happiness for everyone involved, making kindness a valuable trait to possess.
The speaker expresses gratitude for a discussion on how academia can be a place where ideas flourish even amidst struggles, cynicism, and competition.