The Cabrera Lab Podcast

In this new episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack the first six principles in their organization’s Culture Code—a practical, modular set of mental models that shape character, guide behavior, and build real culture from the inside out.You’ll learn why culture isn’t about surface-level swag, but shared mental models; how to truly listen (with more than just your ears); and why systems thinkers must practice curiosity, evolution, and presence—every single day. These six principles—Team First, See Systems, Listen, Evolve, Be a Light, and Be Curious—are the building blocks of a high-integrity, high-performance life.If you’ve ever wondered how to align personal growth with professional excellence, this is where to start.

In this special “IRL” (in real life) episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University sit down with a parent struggling to navigate one of the most common and emotionally charged family issues: what kids eat.Their guest, "John," opens up about his 8-year-old daughter’s ultra-processed diet, his fear for her long-term health, and how dinner has turned into a battleground. Through systems thinking, they reframe the issue—not as a fight to win tonight, but as a long game of building agency, values, and critical thinking.If you’ve ever felt powerless at the dinner table—or in any parenting dilemma—this episode shows how systems thinking can turn fear into strategy and frustration into hope.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down their updated vision for global transformation: not just 8 billion systems thinkers—but 8 billion above the standard.They unpack the science behind mental fitness, the difference between awareness and practice, and how changing your default thinking patterns can unlock faster, smarter decisions. You’ll learn why IQ and degrees don’t equal intelligence, why you are the system, and how practicing six simple thinking moves can permanently rewire your brain.If you want to lead better, live better, and help change the world—this episode lays out the roadmap.

Explore the idea that true change comes from within rather than just changing environments. Delve into how personal patterns draw similar jobs and relationships into our lives. Discover the impact of external factors on our choices and the importance of self-reflection. Learn to recognize recurring cycles in relationships, empowering you to confront emotional baggage. By transforming hard-earned lessons into personal rules, you can foster meaningful growth and break free from self-sabotage.

In this inspiring episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reveal the 12 Gets—a simple, science-backed system that helped Derek shed 130 pounds, reverse pre-diabetes, and reclaim his life.Born from a sabbatical of deep systems thinking and personal transformation, the 12 Gets offer a blueprint for health, longevity, and mental fitness. From “Get Moving” to “Get Smart” to “Get Challenged,” each “Get” is both accessible and adaptable—no gimmicks, just real strategies that work.Whether you're starting from zero or leveling up your routine, this episode gives you the tools to build a life that’s strong, clear, and deeply lived.GET THE BOOK: https://www.stsi.pro/product-page/connect-the-dots-book-pre-order-now

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack one of the most misunderstood (and underrated) skills: integrity. It’s not just about being a “good person”—it’s about alignment between what you say and what you do.They explore why integrity starts as a relationship with yourself, how overpromising wrecks trust, and how to build integrity through purposeful practice. If you've ever struggled to keep commitments (especially to yourself), this episode shows you how to train integrity like a muscle—and why it's the foundation for every healthy relationship, personal or professional.

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take on the everyday challenge of self-management—breaking it down into 3 essential tools: structure, rules, and distributed intelligence.From taming your to-do list and calendar chaos to creating space for flow, they share how systems thinking helps high performers (and the rest of us) build mental fitness, stay focused, and stop spinning in circles. Whether you’re neurodivergent or just drowning in deadlines, this episode delivers actionable strategies, personal stories, and real tools to help you win the day—every day.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack what they call the “arsenal”—a core set of mental moves that bridge the gap between your professional life and your personal growth.They explore how tools like the RDS Barbell, distinctions, and perspective-taking can radically improve your communication, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. You'll learn why everything is personal, how agency is the key to freedom, and why metacognition is the superpower that changes everything.Whether you’re trying to set better boundaries, parent with more empathy, or lead more effectively, this episode shows you how systems thinking isn’t just for strategy meetings—it’s for life.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack how systems thinking helps you handle life’s toughest changes—before they happen. They share a 4-step process for adapting in real time: build mental fitness, love reality, test your mental model, and adapt fast.You’ll learn why we mistake stress and emotion for “overthinking,” how System 3 thinking gets it fast and right, and why practice—not panic—is what makes you truly ready. Whether you’re navigating a layoff, a life shift, or just everyday chaos, this episode shows you how to stay clear, grounded, and mentally sharp.

Explore how nature and thought share four structural patterns: Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives (DSRP). Discover the fluid nature of identity, shaped by our perceptions and biases. Learn to embrace evolving viewpoints to gain a deeper understanding of reality. Delve into the observer effect and how personal perceptions influence our experiences. The conversation encourages breaking free from societal norms, fostering growth, and finding harmony with nature. A deep dive into the grammar of reality unlocks profound clarity and awe.