In this final part of our compelling trilogy, Manu Kapur, author of Productive Failure, returns to uncover the psychology behind effective learning. Discover why failing first can drive deeper understanding, greater retention, and lasting mastery.
Hosted by Aidan McCullen, this episode explores real-world strategies rooted in research—from the Zeigarnik Effect to motivational boosts like loss aversion, endowed progress, and goal gradients.
Whether you're an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode offers tools to rethink failure as a powerful ally in personal growth and innovation.
What You'll Learn:
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Why failure can enhance memory and understanding
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The science of loss aversion and how to hack it for learning
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Endowed progress and goal gradient theory in practice
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How to spark curiosity and mastery in children and adults
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Building learning resilience and overcoming imposter syndrome
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A practical model for designing learning for yourself and others
Resources & Links:
Timestamps (Chapters):
00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:38 Welcoming the Guest: Manu Kaur
01:15 Understanding the Zeigarnik Effect
04:00 Affective Boost Levels: Loss Aversion and Endowed Progress
08:16 Goal Gradient and Personal Motivation
12:44 Growth Mindset and Effort
16:46 Children, Uncertainty, and Learning
21:51 Achievement Goals vs. Mastery Goals
26:27 Phenomenological Primitives and Learning
29:01 Understanding the Role of Context in Learning
31:49 The Power of Comparison and Contrast
34:34 Learning Through Metaphors and Case Studies
38:58 Addressing Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Challenges
41:14 Productive Failure in Learning and Growth
45:17 Designing Effective Learning Tasks
49:44 The Importance of Affective Draw in Mastery
56:13 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
