Gregory Walton on Why Big Changes Start With Small Acts | EP 593
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
Navigating Belonging and Inequality
This chapter explores themes of belonging and human connection within the context of educational inequality and global poverty. The speaker shares impactful personal experiences, including a formative trip to Indonesia and a false arrest, illustrating the complexities of social identity and systemic biases. Through reflections on moral beauty and small acts of kindness, the chapter emphasizes the importance of community, dignity, and recognition in fostering meaningful relationships.
What if the secret to lasting transformation isn’t bold, sweeping moves—but quiet, intentional actions?
In this thought-provoking episode, John R. Miles interviews Stanford University psychologist Dr. Gregory Walton, whose groundbreaking research has reshaped how we understand belonging, mindset, and behavior change. Walton’s new book, Ordinary Magic, reveals how small, psychologically wise interventions can catalyze extraordinary change in schools, relationships, and society.
Greg shares the personal stories that inspired his research—from traveling through global poverty as a teen to being falsely arrested as an adult. These formative experiences drive his mission: to help people feel seen, valued, and capable of growth.
Full Shownotes here: https://passionstruck.com/gregory-walton-big-changes-start-with-small-acts/
Key Takeaways:
- Small acts can spark exponential impact
- Belonging isn’t a luxury—it’s foundational
- Everyone needs one person who believes in them irrationally
- Empathy and psychological safety create the conditions for growth
- Belief, when grounded in unconditional regard, can rewrite someone’s story
- Helping without humility can do more harm than good
- Start with trust—and build from there
Connect with Dr. Gregory Walton: https://psychology.stanford.edu/people/greg-walton
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Next on Passion Struck:
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.
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Catch More of Passion Struck:
- My solo episode on Why Mattering at Work Is the New Metric Leaders Must Track
- Catch My Episode with Coach Matt Doherty on How You Rebound From Life’s Toughest Moments
- Watch my interview with Jessica Kriegel on How to Build an Intentional Workplace
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