The mindbodygreen Podcast 633: The psychology of uncertainty, growth & hope | Maya Shankar, Ph.D.
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Jan 18, 2026 
Maya Shankar, Ph.D., a cognitive scientist and former chair of the White House Behavioral Science Team, delves into the transformative power of change. She discusses how unexpected transitions reveal hidden facets of our identity and the illusion of control we often cling to. Maya emphasizes the importance of flexible identity and anchoring ourselves to core motives. She also shares wisdom on cultivating meaning without religion and offers practical strategies to handle uncertainty and denial, ultimately encouraging a mindset of growth and resilience.
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Revelation Through Severe Change
- Maya Shankar tells Olivia's story of locked-in syndrome to show how change can reveal hidden parts of ourselves.
- Olivia's inability to curate herself forced self-acceptance and led to profound, unexpected growth.
The Illusion Of Control Shatters Identity
- The illusion of control comforts us but shatters under big unexpected changes, threatening meaning and purpose.
- Reclaiming controllable mental reframes gives people agency amid uncertainty.
Expect Yourself To Change
- Anticipate your future malleability and remember you will change after major life events to reduce overwhelm.
- Use that expectation to find hope that the person who endures the change will be different and more capable.
