Hidden Brain

Liane Young, a psychologist and neuroscientist, discusses the fascinating concept of 'theory of mind'—the ability to understand what others are thinking. She explains how this cognitive skill develops in children and shapes our moral judgments, often leading to misunderstandings. Fred Luskin, an expert on forgiveness, answers listener questions about grudges, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and open communication. He illustrates how releasing grudges can pave the way for personal peace and healthier relationships.

Gillian Sandstrom, a psychologist focused on social isolation, shares insights on the significance of weak ties and their surprisingly positive impact on happiness. She discusses how casual conversations with strangers can boost emotional well-being. Erica Bailey, a researcher on authenticity, responds to listener questions about revealing true selves in various social contexts. They touch on the challenges of authenticity in the workplace and the importance of creating safe environments for genuine expression.

Max Bazerman, a Harvard Business School behavioral scientist and negotiation expert, dives into the intricate world of negotiation dynamics. He challenges misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness over ego in achieving better outcomes. Bazerman discusses the intense bidding wars in the airline industry and the pitfalls of self-sabotage in negotiations. He also highlights the 'veil of ignorance' as a tool for fairness and collaboration, shedding light on how shifting perspectives can lead to more equitable results in both personal and professional settings.

Allison Pugh, a sociologist from Johns Hopkins University, dives into the concept of 'connective labor,' a vital force in fostering genuine connections. She reveals shocking truths about how often people feel overlooked, especially in homes and workplaces. The discussion covers the gender dynamics of connection, the impact of empathy in healthcare, and how active listening can transform educational experiences. Pugh emphasizes that cultivating the ability to make others feel seen greatly enhances both personal and professional relationships.

In this intriguing discussion, philosopher L.A. Paul from Yale University dives into how transformative experiences shape our identities. She addresses how pivotal moments, like those in the lives of John Newton and Malcolm X, redefine personal values and perspectives. Paul challenges listeners to reflect on their own life-altering decisions and the gap between who we are and who we might become. The conversation also explores the complexities of advanced directives in medicine, emphasizing the need for adaptability as circumstances change.

Saul Kassin, a leading psychologist specializing in false confessions, discusses the surprising reality behind why people confess to crimes they didn't commit. He delves into the psychological tactics used in police interrogations that can lead to coerced confessions. Kassin explores the impact of authority and social isolation, as well as the influence of sleep deprivation during interrogations. He sheds light on systemic issues in the criminal justice system and offers potential solutions to safeguard against wrongful convictions.

Rita McGrath, a Professor at Columbia University, dives into the dynamics of inflection points in business. She unpacks when to embrace change versus when to hold steady, using fascinating case studies like Coca-Cola's New Coke and Gillette's struggles against Dollar Shave Club. Rita explains the four stages of inflection points, the warning signs to look out for, and emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to market disruptions. Listeners will gain insights on navigating personal and professional transitions like a pro.

Kenji Yoshino, a legal scholar at NYU and author of "Covering," explores the nuances of identity and self-expression. He discusses the concept of 'covering'—how individuals downplay their true selves due to societal pressures. Kenji highlights the emotional burdens faced by marginalized groups and the impact on workplace dynamics. He draws on historical figures like Margaret Thatcher, illustrating the psychological cost of conformity. The conversation underscores the importance of embracing authenticity and fostering acceptance in our personal and professional lives.

Sunita Sah, a Cornell University psychologist and author of "Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes," explores the curious phenomenon of self-silencing. She discusses why people often comply with authority instead of speaking out, revealing societal pressures that lead to preference falsification. Through compelling anecdotes, she highlights the emotional cost of silence, especially in critical situations like healthcare. The conversation also emphasizes reclaiming personal agency and aligning actions with core values, encouraging listeners to navigate the tension between conformity and integrity.

In this engaging talk, Alison Wood Brooks, a behavioral scientist from Harvard Business School, dives into the art of navigating tough conversations. She shares insights on transforming anxiety into excitement and emphasizes the importance of empathy and emotional awareness. Alison discusses shifting from a persuasive mindset to one of receptiveness and the power of apologies in mending relationships. With personal anecdotes and practical techniques, she showcases how to approach sensitive topics effectively, fostering understanding and connection.