The Rich Roll Podcast Cognitive Scientist Maya Shankar On Navigating Unexpected Life Changes, The Neuroscience Of Identity, & How To Unlock Your Next Self
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Jan 15, 2026 
Maya Shankar, a cognitive neuroscientist and former advisor at the Obama White House, shares her insights on navigating life's unexpected changes. She explores the tension between voluntary and involuntary changes and how our brains resist uncertainty. Maya discusses her personal journey through identity crises caused by injuries and losses, emphasizing the importance of redefining identity beyond roles. She offers practical strategies for embracing change as a revelation while cultivating curiosity and agency in the face of adversity.
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End-Of-History Illusion Limits Forecasting
- We wrongly assume our present self will remain unchanged, ignoring the end-of-history illusion.
- Big changes accelerate internal transformation so we become different people on the other side.
Illusion Of Control Fuels Uncertainty Aversion
- Humans overestimate control and hate uncertainty because control supports meaning and motivation.
- When change shatters that illusion, we feel disoriented and threatened.
Anchor Identity To Your 'Why'
- Define yourself by why you do things, not only by what you do.
- Then find other outlets that express that why to stabilize identity after loss.
