In this enlightening discussion, psychology professor Nick Epley and writer Mandy Len Catron share insights on meaningful communication. Epley reveals how deep questions can create strong connections and transform conversations. Catron reflects on her viral New York Times article about love and the power of structured queries. They explore how thoughtful engagement can foster intimacy, even among strangers. Listeners learn practical tips to enhance their relationship-building skills through genuine, transparent dialogue.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Nick Epley's DUIs
Nick Epley was caught drunk driving twice as a teenager.
The second time, his parents' questions about his behavior prompted reflection and change.
insights INSIGHT
The Power of Questions
Nick Epley's transformational experience after his second DUI sparked his interest in the power of questions.
He wondered why certain questions are more impactful than lectures.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Fast Friends Procedure
Researchers conducted an experiment where strangers asked and answered 36 increasingly personal questions.
A surprising 70% of participants later sought out their partners for further connection.
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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.
Supercommunicators
How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection
Charles Duhigg
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.
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.
Slow Burn 
