TED Talks Daily The most powerful predictor of team success | Rafael Chiuzi
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Jul 11, 2025 
Rafael Chiuzi, an organizational psychologist and professor, delves into the dangers of fear-based cultures that stifle creativity and communication in the workplace. He draws parallels between childhood fears and adult professional environments, emphasizing the pivotal role of psychological safety in team dynamics. Chiuzi shares three actionable steps to cultivate an open, supportive atmosphere, where curiosity thrives and fear diminishes, ultimately fostering greater productivity and innovation. His insights reveal the critical need for a healthier approach to teamwork.
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Childhood Fear of Speaking Up
- Rafael Chiuzi recounts his fear of speaking up during oral pop quizzes in school.
- This fear of looking inadequate affected his willingness to ask questions and lasted well into adulthood.
Fear Silenced Critical Voices
- Rafael shares stories of employees afraid to report safety issues in Chernobyl and Boeing 737 MAX disasters.
- Fear silenced workers, contributing to tragic accidents and workplace harm.
Definition of Psychological Safety
- Psychological safety is the belief one won't be punished for speaking up about ideas, concerns, or mistakes.
- It is essential for enabling open communication and innovation in teams.