Hidden Brain

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.

Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks from Harvard Business School dives into the art of conversation, revealing just how complex our interactions truly are. She discusses the power of asking open-ended questions to deepen connections and highlights the significance of meaningful exchanges in both personal and professional realms. Brooks also unpacks the dynamics of interruptions and shares insights on navigating the intricacies of communication. With humor and research, she encourages continual improvement in our everyday dialogues.

Fred Luskin, a psychologist at Stanford University and director of the Stanford Forgiveness Project, dives into the heavy burden of grudges. He discusses how holding onto resentments harms our mental and physical well-being more than the individuals we harbor grudges against. Luskin shares insights on the emotional weight of betrayal and rejection, and highlights the transformative power of forgiveness. He emphasizes personal growth through processing feelings, reframing perspectives, and embracing healthier relationships for a liberated emotional state.

In this discussion, Brian Klaas, a political scientist from University College London, examines how randomness shapes our lives. He explores the significance of unexpected events, illustrating how they can lead to resilience and new opportunities. The conversation spans topics like historical moral dilemmas, the brain's tendency to create narratives, and how minor choices ripple through our lives. Klaas advocates for embracing chaos to find fulfillment, urging listeners to see the beauty in uncertainty.

In this enlightening discussion, researcher Sarah Jaquette Ray addresses climate anxiety and how to reclaim personal agency in the face of overwhelming global issues. Her insights on the emotional struggles of youth confronting environmental despair are particularly poignant. Writer Pico Iyer shares his experiences with finding clarity through silence and solitude, emphasizing the healing benefits of quiet moments in chaos. Together, they explore the power of community and small actions in nurturing hope amidst daunting challenges.

Ken Sheldon, a psychology professor at the University of Missouri renowned for his research on goal-setting, discusses the challenges of making choices that align with our true values. He emphasizes the influence of parents and society on our aspirations and the importance of self-reflection. Listeners learn how to navigate societal pressures, identify meaningful goals, and the transformative journey toward authenticity. The conversation highlights the struggle to reconcile personal desires with external expectations for a more fulfilling life.

Adam Galinsky, a psychologist at Columbia University specializing in decision-making and leadership, discusses the psychology behind rising to the occasion during crises. He shares insights on effective leadership, contrasting cowardice with courageous acts, like a soccer coach who inspired hope in his trapped team. Galinsky highlights crucial lessons from incidents, emphasizing the importance of resilience, empathy, and empowering others in dire situations. His research underscores how experience fosters courageous leadership amidst adversity.