Psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant shares stories and studies on human potential and ability. Topics discussed include education, scouting quarterbacks, coaching Steph Curry, and the impact of Protestantism on literacy rates. Grant challenges the belief in natural talent, emphasizes the importance of deliberate play and interleaving, and discusses the Lemieux effect and predicting success.
Deliberate play can enhance skill development by turning practice into a fun and playful experience.
Absence of star players can lead to improved performance by highlighting the hidden potential and capabilities of other team members.
Deep dives
Deliberate Play and Skill Improvement
One key concept discussed in the podcast is the idea of deliberate play in skill improvement. This involves turning practice into a more enjoyable and playful experience, incorporating autonomy and variety. The story of basketball coach Brandon Payne demonstrates the power of deliberate play in training his client, Steph Curry, who went on to become a back-to-back MVP. By making practice fun and game-like, the coach was able to foster skill development and motivate his player.
Hidden Potential and Improvement in Teams
The podcast highlights a study on NBA teams that shows how the temporary absence of a star player can lead to improved performance when they return. This phenomenon is explained by the need for the team to reconfigure roles and routines in the absence of their star. It reveals the hidden potential and capabilities of other team members, showcasing the importance of exploring and leveraging the strengths of the entire team, rather than solely relying on star performers.
Grade Point Trajectory and Success Prediction
An analysis of high school graduates from Florida reveals that improvement in grades from freshman to senior year is a better predictor of future success than GPA alone. This challenges the traditional approach of focusing solely on an average GPA and highlights the importance of considering the trajectory of academic performance. The implication is that individuals who demonstrate growth and improvement over time have the potential for greater achievements.
The Implications of Affirmative Action
The podcast discusses the double-edged sword nature of affirmative action policies. It highlights the challenges that arise when individuals from underrepresented groups face self-doubt and stigma in environments where affirmative action is known. While these policies aim to correct historic injustices, they can inadvertently create additional barriers and doubts regarding individuals' qualifications. The conversation prompts a reconsideration of policies, emphasizing the focus on individual experiences and potential rather than solely relying on group membership.
Today, we’re taking a break from war to talk about the science of human potential and a new book on that subject from the psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant. In 'Hidden Potential,' Grant shares stories and studies across sports, religious history, coaching, and economics to explain why we're bad at cultivating our own potential and identifying ability in others. We talk about education and affirmative action, scouting quarterbacks, coaching Steph Curry, and, for reasons that will soon become apparent, the spread of Protestantism.
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