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
20 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.
106 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.
8 snips
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.
Apr 28, 2025 • 37min
The Two Words That Saved Mel Robbins
Bestselling author and podcast host Mel Robbins shares her insights on letting go of control and the burdens of people-pleasing. She discusses a transformative moment during her son's prom that shifted her perspective on emotional health. Emphasizing the importance of compassion, Mel encourages listeners to embrace autonomy in relationships. She also highlights her upcoming book, exploring personal empowerment through change and the necessity of ceding control for inner peace. Innovative home solutions and financial tools are also touched upon.
Apr 17, 2025 • 3min
Maya’s Exciting Announcement!
I’ve been dying to share this news with you for quite some time, and I'm so happy that today I finally can. Pre-order “The Other Side of Change” now at changewithmaya.com/book. Read more about my journey to writing “The Other Side of Change” in People: https://people.com/maya-shankar-the-other-side-of-change-cover-reveal-exclusive-11716505See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Apr 14, 2025 • 47min
Is Amanda Knox Finally Free?
Amanda Knox, wrongfully convicted of murder and now an author, shares her profound journey of healing and self-discovery. She recounts her decision to confront the prosecutor who vilified her, delving into the psychological toll of her experiences. The conversation also explores her aspirations of motherhood, the emotional weight of loss, and her quest for understanding in the wake of trauma. Knox reflects on the power of empathy in adversity and the importance of connection, offering insights into resilience and the quest for meaning.
