The Cabrera Lab Podcast

In this eye-opening episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down their powerful formula for meaning: M = IO (meaning equals information plus organization). Using playful examples—like coffee drinks, cocktails, and skincare—they show how the same underlying structures drive innovation, communication, and even conflict.You’ll learn how most arguments stem from mismatched mental models, why seeing the structure behind things unlocks creativity, and how this mindset shift can help you solve problems faster, connect better, and see life in 3D. If you’re ready to level up your thinking, this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down how echo chambers form, why circular citation networks trick us into believing falsehoods, and how critical systems like science and media are losing public trust.They explain why truthiness matters, why science isn’t the same as academia, and how you can protect yourself by questioning, diversifying your sources, and thinking in gradients—not binaries. If you’re tired of feeling confused and manipulated, this episode gives you the mindset tools to break free.

In this powerful episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reflect on parenting through the lens of DSRP, character development, and a world reshaped by AI. They unpack the difference between giving your kids answers and teaching them to think—between raising performers and building whole humans.With stories from the mountains, the classroom, and their own kitchen table, this episode explores how to guide kids toward independence, metacognition, and a future full of unknowns. If you’re a parent, teacher, or anyone who works with young minds, this one is equal parts heart and strategy.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University introduce DSRP Therapy, a systems-based approach that helps people understand, surface, and revise their mental models—at the root of emotion, behavior, and personal change.They walk through how DSRP compares to traditional therapies like CBT, and explain why getting your thoughts “out on the table” and testing them against reality builds more self-awareness, resilience, and long-term growth. If you’ve ever wanted a thinking-based approach to healing and personal clarity, this one’s a must-listen.

Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera challenge conventional problem-solving habits, revealing that quick fixes often overlook deeper flaws in systems. They discuss how biases can cloud judgment and emphasize the need for broader perspectives. Understanding underlying systems is portrayed as key to addressing root causes, rather than just surface issues. The conversation encourages listeners to adopt proactive approaches, using analogies like crime scene investigations to illustrate the importance of fully grasping contexts before taking action.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University dive deep into the theme of their upcoming conference—Connect the Dots—and challenge the outdated idea of “root cause” thinking. Instead, they break down how real-world problems emerge from webs of causality, where multiple, interacting factors must be addressed simultaneously to get results.They explain why trying one solution at a time fails, how to use systems thinking tools like zooming, part/whole, and relationship mapping, and why seeing the whole system is the only way to make lasting change—whether it’s in sleep, school shootings, or societal polarization.If you're tired of oversimplified answers to complex problems, this episode is your roadmap to thinking more clearly and solving more effectively.

In this special podcast-iversary episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University celebrate one year of the Cabrera Lab Podcast by taking a flamethrower to one of systems thinking’s most stubborn myths: “The whole is greater than its parts.”They dive deep into the real meaning of emergence, why complexity science is not about magic or mysticism, and how all the intelligence in a system actually comes from simple rules and relationships—not some vague “greater than” force.From ant colonies to clowns and kangaroos, this episode explains why the most powerful part of any system lies in the micro, not the macro. If you’ve ever been confused by emergence—or mesmerized by outcomes—this episode will change the way you see systems forever.

Feeling overwhelmed? Discover the vital difference between thoughts and feelings to reduce stress and make better decisions. Learn the RAR Quad method to pause before reacting and take control of your emotional responses. The hosts tackle how to navigate emotional manipulation in media and social platforms, urging listeners to verify information rather than accept it at face value. Strategies for processing emotions and enhancing communication skills provide real tools for clarity in a chaotic world.

Systems thinking is more than a buzzword; it's often muddied by untested opinions. The hosts dissect how academia can misrepresent scientific rigor through flawed peer review processes. They illuminate the divide between actual science and academic constructs, emphasizing the need for empirical evidence in frameworks. Additionally, the difference between critical and creative thinking is explored, showcasing how both influence our understanding of systems. Prepare to rethink familiar concepts and challenge the status quo!

The discussion challenges the notion of critical thinking as the pinnacle of reasoning. It delves into common pitfalls in argumentation, urging a shift towards open-mindedness and fairness in debates. The roots of polarization are traced back to historical binary thinking, highlighting its impact on identity and discourse. The podcast advocates for understanding biases and embracing systems thinking to enhance critical skills. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in navigating debates and the necessity for a nuanced, adaptable approach.