A Slight Change of Plans
Pushkin Industries
What happens when life doesn’t go according to plan? In this award-winning podcast, cognitive scientist Dr. Maya Shankar explores how we experience change and strategies we can use to better navigate moments of upheaval.
Maya’s life took a dramatic turn when an injury ended her career as a violinist and inspired her to study the science of change.
Named Apple Podcasts’ Best Show of the Year, A Slight Change of Plans features deeply personal stories and scientific insights about who we are and who we become in the face of a big change.
Past guests include Kacey Musgraves, Brené Brown, Ruby Bridges, Amanda Knox, Adam Grant, Angela Duckworth and more.
Whether it’s a sudden pivot or a slow transformation, each episode reveals how change can give us an opportunity to reimagine who we are and unlock greater possibility.
You can follow Maya on instagram @DrMayaShankar and read her free newsletter at changewithmaya.com.
Get early, ad-free access to episodes of A Slight Change of Plans by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows.
Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Maya’s life took a dramatic turn when an injury ended her career as a violinist and inspired her to study the science of change.
Named Apple Podcasts’ Best Show of the Year, A Slight Change of Plans features deeply personal stories and scientific insights about who we are and who we become in the face of a big change.
Past guests include Kacey Musgraves, Brené Brown, Ruby Bridges, Amanda Knox, Adam Grant, Angela Duckworth and more.
Whether it’s a sudden pivot or a slow transformation, each episode reveals how change can give us an opportunity to reimagine who we are and unlock greater possibility.
You can follow Maya on instagram @DrMayaShankar and read her free newsletter at changewithmaya.com.
Get early, ad-free access to episodes of A Slight Change of Plans by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows.
Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Episodes
Mentioned books
15 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 42min
Listen To: Amanda Knox’s “False Confessions”
In this captivating discussion, Amanda Knox, wrongfully convicted in Italy, delves into her harrowing experience with false confessions. Joined by Jason Strong, who faced coercion during his own interrogation, they expose the dark tactics used by law enforcement. Psychology professor Saul Kasson and director Steve Drizzen bring insight into how these manipulative methods pressure innocent people into confessions. Together, they challenge the integrity of the justice system and advocate for critical reforms to prevent wrongful convictions.
Aug 14, 2025 • 2min
Maya Is Chris Hemsworth’s Brain Coach!
Maya shares her exciting experience of coaching Chris Hemsworth, exploring the intersection of neuroscience and personal growth. The discussion highlights the benefits of acquiring new skills, like learning the drums, for enhancing brain health. Listeners are encouraged to engage with Maya during a live Q&A session, where they can dive deeper into brain-boosting techniques. It's a captivating blend of celebrity insight and practical advice for personal development!
6 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 43min
“I Feel So Wildly Lucky To Like Myself”
Jessica Slice, a talented author who shares her experiences living with disability, explores the transformative power of self-acceptance. She candidly discusses her journey from striving for perfection to embracing her identity after a health crisis. Jessica reflects on the pressures of societal expectations and how they shaped her sense of self-worth. With insights drawn from influential literature, she highlights the importance of redefining identity through personal experiences and the acceptance of life's imperfections.
18 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h
How Jacinda Ardern Turned Self-Doubt into a Strength
Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, shares her journey from self-doubt to resilient leadership. She discusses the importance of empathy and kindness in political crises, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ardern reflects on balancing personal integrity with public expectation and the challenges of tackling significant responsibilities at a young age. Her insights emphasize how vulnerability can transform leadership styles, highlighting the power of compassion in governance.
53 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 37min
When Productivity Becomes Pathological
Judith Joseph, a psychiatrist and clinical researcher at NYU, sheds light on the complex nature of joy and mental health. She discusses the masks people wear to disguise their internal struggles, particularly in high-functioning depression. Judith emphasizes the misconception that productivity equates to well-being, urging listeners to address their emotions openly. She navigates the unique challenges faced by demographics like women and healthcare workers, advocating for proactive support and self-care. Her insights offer a vital perspective on reclaiming joy amidst everyday pressures.
85 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 34min
Sahil Bloom: Building A (Truly) Happy Life
Sahil Bloom, author of The Five Types of Wealth and a former financial advisor, candidly shares his journey of reevaluating success. He dives into the dissonance between societal expectations and personal fulfillment, urging listeners to rethink what truly matters in life. Bloom emphasizes the significance of time spent with loved ones and advocates for identifying diverse forms of wealth beyond just financial gain. His insights encourage a more intentional approach to living, prioritizing meaningful connections and personal values.
4 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 38min
One Trauma, Two Different Paths
Tommy Caldwell, one of the world's top rock climbers, shares his incredible journey of resilience after surviving a six-day hostage situation in Kyrgyzstan. He discusses how this traumatic experience unlocked a transformative 'flow state' that propelled him to excel in climbing. Caldwell also confronts the guilt and confusion surrounding a critical moment during his captivity, exploring the duality of feeling both a hero and a survivor. His inspiring story delves into the emotional and physical challenges he faced in pursuit of climbing greatness.
Jun 9, 2025 • 44min
A Climber Loses Her Grip
Beth Rodden, a professional rock climber known for her incredible resilience, shares her harrowing tale of being kidnapped during a climbing expedition in Kyrgyzstan. She discusses how her mindset of tolerating pain and fear was challenged in life-threatening circumstances. The conversation dives into the psychological aftermath of trauma, exploring vulnerability, relationships, and personal growth. Beth also reflects on how parenthood shifted her perspective, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being over mere achievement.
May 26, 2025 • 12min
BONUS: Boost Your Resilience At Work
Ben Walter, CEO of Chase for Business and host of The Unshakeables podcast, shares his expertise on resilience at work. He explores the unique challenges small business owners face and offers insights on mental health strategies. The discussion highlights the importance of community support and contingency planning, illustrated by the recovery of a coffee company after a fire. Ben also emphasizes the balance between personal well-being and business duties, discussing how empathy and understanding personal purpose can combat burnout and enhance workplace relationships.
May 12, 2025 • 42min
Glennon Doyle on How to Be Broken
Glennon Doyle, bestselling author and host of We Can Do Hard Things, shares her deeply personal journey of feeling broken and searching for belonging. She discusses the importance of self-discovery, the struggles of addiction, and the significance of authenticity in her life. Glennon reveals how societal pressures can amplify feelings of chaos and emphasizes finding clarity through writing. Her transformative experiences highlight the power of community support and the ongoing quest for inner peace amidst life’s challenges.
