Nick Epley, a psychology professor at the University of Chicago, explores the transformative power of deep questions in communication. Mandy Len Catron, a creative writing professor, reflects on her viral essay about questions that foster love. Together, they discuss how intentional dialogue can create lasting connections and enhance emotional bonds. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in relationships, with practical tips for engaging in deeper conversations in everyday life.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Deep Questions at a Hedge Fund Conference
Nick Epley surprised hedge fund executives by having them ask each other deep questions.
The executives initially resisted but ended up having meaningful conversations.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Transformative Power of "Why" Questions
Nick Epley recounts two DUI experiences as a teenager.
The second incident, where his parents asked "why" questions, led to lasting change.
insights INSIGHT
The Fast Friends Procedure
The "Fast Friends Procedure" involves 36 escalating intimacy questions leading to increased connection.
In an experiment, 70% of participants sought further contact after the procedure.
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In this book, Charles Duhigg explores the secrets of 'supercommunicators' who excel at connecting with others. He delves into the three distinct types of conversations—practical, emotional, and social—and provides practical strategies and case studies to illustrate how to recognize and navigate these conversations effectively. The book includes examples from various contexts, such as jury deliberations, CIA recruitments, and workplace interactions, to demonstrate how communication can be improved. Duhigg emphasizes the importance of active listening, identifying complex emotions, and matching the type of conversation to enhance connection and understanding.
How to fall in love with anyone
A Memoir in Essays
Mandy Len Catron
This book is a collection of essays that delve into the complexities of love and relationships. It includes Catron's viral New York Times article 'To Fall in Love with Anyone, Do This,' which describes her experience with a psychology experiment involving 36 questions to create intimacy between strangers. The book expands on this idea, examining the biological, psychological, and historical aspects of love, as well as Catron's personal experiences and those of her family. It critiques romantic myths and encourages readers to reassess their own understanding of love and relationships.
Mind Wise
Nick Epley
Why are some people able to talk with just about anyone—about almost anything? One answer may lie in the questions we ask—and how deeply we ask them. Stick with us here…
In this episode, host Charles Duhigg examines why deep questions are so powerful and how to ask them in everyday life.
He talks to Nick Epley, psychology professor at the University of Chicago and lifelong researcher of deep questions. And we catch up with Mandy Len Catron, 10 years after she wrote the viral New York Times article “The 36 Questions That Lead to Love.”
This Slate miniseries dives into the art and science of meaningful conversations, inspired by Duhigg’s bestselling book, Supercommunicators.
Supercommunicators was produced by Derek John and Sophie Summergrad.
One Year 
