ReThinking

Elliot Aronson, a pivotal figure in psychology renowned for his insights on cognitive dissonance, discusses intriguing aspects of human behavior. He shares a humorous teaching moment that highlights the pratfall effect, showcasing how vulnerability can foster connections. The conversation delves into cognitive dissonance's impact on self-justification, exploring how we rationalize our choices. Aronson also emphasizes the art of self-persuasion, urging listeners to engage in argument-making for better decision-making. Personal anecdotes about love and marriage add depth to his reflections.

In this insightful discussion, Brené Brown, a research professor and leading expert on vulnerability, courage, and shame, shares her groundbreaking insights on vulnerability in the workplace. She explores the misconceptions around vulnerability, emphasizing it as a strength, not a weakness. Brené discusses the importance of boundaries when sharing personal struggles, encouraging leaders to embrace openness for deeper connections. The conversation also delves into navigating the complexities of vulnerability without oversharing, fostering authenticity while maintaining professionalism.

Maggie Smith, a celebrated poet and author known for her viral poem "Good Bones," joins the discussion on the messy complexities of life. She delves into nurturing hope while recognizing reality, emphasizing the power of asking challenging questions without easy answers. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing ambiguous emotions, such as fear and anger, as teachers in our personal journeys. They explore balancing optimism in parenting amidst a perceived dangerous world while fostering resilience through emotional acceptance.

Rainn Wilson, the comedic talent best known as Dwight Schrute from "The Office," shares his journey from struggling actor to stardom and explores the deeper meanings of happiness and spirituality. He discusses how personal crises inspired his spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery. Rainn reflects on memorable moments from his time on "The Office," intertwining humor with profound insights. The dialogue also touches on community bonds, the quest for fulfillment, and maintaining hope through the challenges of modern life.

Barry Schwartz, a psychologist and author of "The Paradox of Choice," teams up with Coco Krumme, an applied mathematician and author of "Optimal Illusions." Together, they delve into the pitfalls of perfectionism and the downsides of relentless optimization. They discuss how aiming for the best can diminish personal satisfaction and well-being. The conversation provides insights on the importance of balancing high standards with accepting good enough, encouraging listeners to reconsider their approach to choices in life, work, and relationships.

George Saunders, an award-winning author celebrated for his short stories and the bestselling Lincoln in the Bardo, shares insights from his unconventional path to writing success. He discusses the importance of kindness in storytelling and how accepting feedback can elevate rough drafts. Saunders delves into navigating uncertainty in writing, emphasizing the value of constructive criticism. He also explores the significance of endings in narratives and the challenges of addressing uncomfortable ideas, all while considering AI's limitations in capturing human experience.

Malcolm Gladwell, an acclaimed author and journalist, dives into a lively conversation centered on Adam Grant's new book, "Hidden Potential." They challenge the myth of innate talent and share personal battles with impostor syndrome and perfectionism. Discussions range from the psychological impacts of affirmative action to the importance of humility in personal growth. With humor, they riff on sports fandom, explore rising parental pressures, and emphasize the often-hidden paths to success, making this an inspiring listen for anyone seeking to unlock their potential.

Join Steven Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist and author, along with Rebecca Hines, an expert in workplace efficiency, as they dive into the world of meetings. They tackle the common frustrations of meeting overload and explore innovative strategies to enhance productivity. From the importance of well-structured agendas to the radical 'Meeting Doomsday' initiative, they share insights on fostering engagement and reclaiming lost time. Discover how rethinking meeting structures can lead to happier and more efficient workplaces!

Nedra Glover Tawwab, a therapist and New York Times bestselling author known for her insights on boundaries, shares her expertise on establishing personal limits. She discusses the fear of rejection and how saying 'no' is essential for self-respect. Listeners learn about the emotional growth that comes from setting boundaries, especially within family dynamics. Nedra also explores the importance of effective communication and skepticism in relationships, emphasizing that understanding our emotions can lead to healthier interactions.

Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of Khan Academy, is a visionary in educational technology. He discusses the potential of AI to transform classrooms, making learning more engaging and personalized. Sal emphasizes the importance of tools that support critical thinking and the challenges of integrating AI safely. The conversation also touches on reinventing essay writing with AI, enhancing engagement in classic literature, and reimagining math education. He advocates for a future where education evolves alongside technology, cultivating mastery and relevance.