The Science of Courage and Fear | Ranjay Gulati
The Art of Charm
How to Sensemake and Act Your Way Into Knowing
Ranjay explains sensemaking, acknowledging fear, and taking small steps to gather data and learn by doing.
Why do only 9% of people and companies grow stronger during crises? According to Harvard Business School professor and author Ranjay Gulati, the answer isn’t intelligence—it’s courage. In this episode, AJ and Johnny unpack what it means to act in the face of fear, not in the absence of it.
Drawing from decades of research and Ranjay’s new book The Soul of Courage, the conversation explores why we’re hardwired to freeze under uncertainty, how the most courageous people “resource” themselves to act, and what separates bold leadership from reckless risk-taking. From stories of NASA pilots and nuclear engineers to everyday professionals stepping up under pressure, this episode is a masterclass in practical courage—how to develop it, share it, and lead with it when everything’s on the line.
What to Listen For [00:01:38] Why 91% of companies retreat in recessions—and 9% win [00:03:06] The psychology of “loss avoidance” and our addiction to safety [00:05:00] The difference between risk and uncertainty—and why the brain freezes [00:07:08] The Fear Equation: redefining courage as action in the face of fear [00:08:44] The Stanford snake experiment and building a “can-do” mindset [00:11:00] How domain mastery and belief from others fuel self-efficacy [00:14:47] Bold vs. reckless: Aristotle’s timeless lesson on measured risk [00:18:54] Courage is not a solo act: the importance of your “support squad” [00:24:32] The link between deep purpose and enduring courage [00:26:31] How to “act your way into knowing” when data is unclear [00:30:03] The science of calm—rituals that regulate fear and focus [00:33:05] Rewriting your personal story to unlock courage [00:38:38] How charisma inspires collective courage in others
A Word From Our Sponsors
Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com
The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially. Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back.
If you’ve put off organizing your finances, Monarch is for you. Use code CHARM at monarch.com in your browser for half off your first year.
Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns.
Grow your way - with Headway! Get started at makeheadway.com/CHARM and use my code CHARM for 25% off.
Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm.
Need to hire top talent—fast? Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm.
This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at mintmobile.com/charm
Save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SELECTQUOTE.COM/CHARM TODAY to get started
Curious about your influence level?
Get your Influence Index Score today!
Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence.
Episode resources:
Check in with AJ and Johnny!
AJ on LinkedIn
Johnny on LinkedIn
AJ on Instagram
Johnny on Instagram
The Art of Charm on Instagram
The Art of Charm on YouTube
The Art of Charm on TikTok
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The AI-powered Podcast Player
