Sian Leah Beilock

Sian Beilock, President of Dartmouth College and expert on performance under stress, joins Rich Lyons, Chancellor of Berkeley and an economist, to discuss the current state of US universities. They tackle the heavy burden of student loans and the implications of rising unemployment among graduates. The duo also addresses the impact of administrative bloat, diversity initiatives, and the shifting dynamics of K-12 education on higher education. They ponder whether AI learning will disrupt traditional pathways and emphasize the need for viewpoint diversity on campuses.

Olympic gold medalist Abby Wambach shares her experiences on mental resilience and the pressures of high-stakes competition. Cognitive scientist Sian Leah Beilock discusses how overthinking can hinder performance, illustrating concepts like the 'yips' and 'twisties'. Sports journalist Kate Fagan reflects on the psychological influence of fandom and the emotional journeys in women's sports. Together, they explore how insights from sports psychology can enhance everyday life, motivating listeners to embrace challenges with a winner's mindset.

Sian Beilock, President of Barnard College and a renowned cognitive scientist, dives deep into the art of performing under pressure. She discusses how overthinking can sabotage your performance, especially in high-stakes situations. Techniques like positive self-talk and visualization are explored as tools to combat anxiety and boost confidence. Sian also emphasizes the role of community support and the necessity of practicing discomfort to thrive in challenging environments. This engaging conversation uncovers the psychology behind success and resilience.

In this discussion, guests Steve Magness, an expert on mental toughness; Sian Leah Beilock, a cognitive scientist and president of Dartmouth; and Allison Feaster, VP at the Boston Celtics, dive into the psychology behind winning. They explore how athletes can build resilience and effective team dynamics while navigating pressure. Personal stories highlight failure as a stepping stone to success, and they discuss how storytelling and reframing negative experiences boost performance. The panel emphasizes the importance of communication, wellness, and adapting mindsets in overcoming challenges.

Sian Beilock, the President of Barnard College and a renowned cognitive scientist, shares her insights on overcoming performance anxiety. She discusses the fascinating concept of 'choking' and differentiates it from 'flow' state experiences. Sian dives into how societal stereotypes can affect women's success in STEM fields and offers practical advice for building confidence and embracing discomfort. Listeners will learn effective strategies for mental preparation in high-stakes situations, making this discussion a treasure trove for anyone looking to succeed under pressure.