Hidden Brain cover image

Hidden Brain

Dropping the Mask

Mar 3, 2025
Kenji Yoshino, a legal scholar at NYU and author of "Covering," explores the nuances of identity and self-expression. He discusses the concept of 'covering'—how individuals downplay their true selves due to societal pressures. Kenji highlights the emotional burdens faced by marginalized groups and the impact on workplace dynamics. He draws on historical figures like Margaret Thatcher, illustrating the psychological cost of conformity. The conversation underscores the importance of embracing authenticity and fostering acceptance in our personal and professional lives.
01:08:59

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Individuals often disguise aspects of their identity to conform to societal norms, leading to internal conflicts and self-esteem issues.
  • Personal experiences, like those shared by Kenji Yoshino, illustrate the deep struggles faced by individuals who cover their true selves.

Deep dives

The Mysterious Hijacking of Dan Cooper

In November 1971, a man identified as Dan Cooper hijacked a Northwest Orient Airlines flight, demanding $200,000 and parachutes. After receiving the ransom, he allowed the passengers to disembark while keeping the crew on board. He then took off again, directing the crew to stay in the cockpit and closing off visibility into the cabin. Ultimately, he parachuted into the night, escaping authorities and leaving his true identity a mystery, demonstrating how extreme measures are sometimes taken to disguise one's true self.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode