Choosing Role Models and Avoiding Toxic Success

What if everything you believed about luck was wrong? In this perspective-shifting episode, I sit down with Dr. Christian Busch—professor at USC, researcher, and author of The Serendipity Mindset—to explore the idea that luck isn’t just something that happens to us. It’s something we can actively create.

Whether you’ve felt stuck, unlucky, or just waiting for your big break, this conversation will make you rethink how you move through the world. Dr. Busch explains how the most “lucky” people are often just the most attuned—they notice opportunities others miss, ask better questions, and take action on the unexpected.

He breaks down how small behavioral shifts—like using “hooks” in everyday conversations—can turn random encounters into real opportunities. And if you’re more introverted? Good news: cultivating serendipity isn’t about being loud or flashy. It’s about being open, curious, and present.

We also explore how busyness, fear of rejection, and autopilot thinking can block you from seeing the luck that’s already around you—and what you can do to change that.

👇 Reflect or share: When was a time something felt like bad luck… but turned out to be a turning point?

🎧 What you’ll learn:

• Why luck is a skill you can develop—not a personality trait
• How fear of rejection might be costing you life-changing moments
• The “hook strategy” for creating connection and serendipity
• What successful people do differently to spark unexpected opportunities
• The 3 types of serendipity and how to use them in your own life

Dr. Busch also shares incredible real-life examples—from missed flights to spilled matcha to scientific discoveries—that prove luck is more about mindset and action than magic. You’ll walk away with tools to rewire your brain for optimism, curiosity, and better timing.

✨ Homework: Think back to a moment when something went wrong. What new possibility might have been buried inside that moment?

If you’ve been waiting for a sign—it might be time to make your own luck. Tune in now.

For more from Dr. Christian Busch:

• Get his book: https://theserendipitymindset.com/books/
• Learn more about his work and talks at: https://theserendipitymindset.com
• His Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristianbusch/
• His LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianwbusch

Ready to uplevel every part of your life? Order Liz’s book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success now! 

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The Liz Moody Podcast cover art by Zack. The Liz Moody Podcast music by Alex Ruimy.

Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast. 

This podcast and website represents the opinions of Liz Moody and her guests to the show. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for information purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.

The Liz Moody Podcast Episode 373.

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