Sian Beilock

Sian Beilock, a cognitive scientist and the first female president of Dartmouth College, dives into the fascinating psychology behind choking under pressure. She shares insights on why talented individuals often falter and emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort for growth. Sian discusses the nuances of leadership in academia, the value of purposeful listening, and how reframing self-doubt can lead to resilience. With practical strategies for overcoming performance anxiety, her conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to thrive under pressure.

Sian Beilock, a cognitive scientist and president of Dartmouth College, and Dominique Dawes, a four-time Olympic medalist, dive into the mental resilience required for Olympic success. They discuss the importance of practicing under pressure and staying focused in the moment. Dawes shares her journey of overcoming challenges to secure gold, highlighting the emotional struggles young athletes face. The conversation also touches on coping with anxiety and the psychological aspects of choking in high-stakes situations, offering valuable insights for anyone aiming to excel.

Sian Beilock, a cognitive scientist and the first woman president of Dartmouth College, dives into the intricate psychology of performing under pressure. She discusses why individuals sometimes choke in critical situations and how anxiety drives this behavior. Sian emphasizes the importance of preparation and self-talk in managing performance anxiety, drawing inspiration from elite athletes like Simone Biles. Additionally, she explores the nuances of academic leadership and the value of collaboration and resilience for personal growth.

Dr. Sian Beilock, President of Dartmouth College, discusses using stress to advantage & helping kids perform under pressure. Topics include distinguishing good vs. bad stress, parental influence on education choices, breaking perfectionism cycle, balancing rewards & grades, practicing under pressure, and encouraging challenges for growth.

The pressure. The expectations. The anxiety. If there’s one thing that many of us have in common, it’s the stress that can come from performing in front of others. In this week’s episode, we revisit our 2021 conversation with cognitive scientist Sian Beilock about why so many of us crumble under pressure — and what we can do about it. Don't forget to check out the other episodes in our You 2.0 series, including last week's show about how we can harness our sight to achieve our goals. Also, if you'd like to support our work, you can do so at support.hiddenbrain.org. Thanks!