The Cabrera Lab Podcast

Explore the depths of healing from childhood trauma and how it shapes adulthood. The hosts unravel how past events trigger harmful mental models that dictate behavior. They share personal stories of abandonment and emphasize the importance of correcting these models in the moment. Discover practical methods to coach your inner child and repair developmental strands. Ultimately, it's about recognizing present mental models and embracing agency to change your path toward growth and self-improvement.

Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss rethinking education by emphasizing critical thinking skills over rote memorization. They share heartwarming stories of students applying complex theories and showcasing far transfer learning. The conversation challenges traditional education models, advocating for personalized learning pathways to empower students and bridge societal disparities.

Derek and Laura explore the transformative power of practice, beginning with everyday examples like yoga and sports. They challenge the notion that thinking can't be practiced, highlighting innovative ways to enhance cognitive skills. Tactile learning emerges as a crucial element, linking physical experiences with neural connections. They advocate for a shift from perfectionism to progress and discuss the importance of iterative improvement. By breaking down thinking into five core moves, they encourage applying these principles to daily life for continuous growth.

Derek and Laura delve into the limitations of traditional IQ tests and introduce the concept of TQ as a more dynamic alternative. They discuss how TQ measures metacognition, examining subconscious thinking patterns rather than just recalling facts. The hosts emphasize the importance of practice in enhancing cognitive abilities, sharing strategies to turn TQ scores into actionable plans for personal growth. They also explore the distinction between confidence and competence, highlighting practical exercises for improving thinking skills.

Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to truly love reality. Discover the significance of humility and curiosity in overcoming biases that cloud thinking. Learn the dangers of ignoring present facts through vivid analogies, like pilots and mountain goats. Hear how cultivating inquiry can enhance knowledge and decision-making, while also recognizing the web of causality in complex problems. With insights on adapting to feedback, the episode emphasizes the value of staying grounded in reality.

Discover the art of 'upthinking'—a method to refine your thinking akin to physical training. Learn how thoughts shape emotions and empower decision-making. Explore different thinking styles beyond just critical thinking, including creative and scientific approaches. Delve into cognitive movements, balancing detailed analysis with a broader perspective. Practice enhances your thinking just like athletic skills, leading to unique insights. Finally, assess your Thinking Quotient and develop personalized strategies to elevate your problem-solving abilities.