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
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.
Apr 7, 2025 • 44min
Amanda Knox Knows What You’re Thinking
Amanda Knox, wrongfully convicted of murder in Italy and now an advocate for justice, shares her harrowing journey of imprisonment and exoneration. She talks about the traumatic psychological effects of intense police interrogation and media frenzy. Knox reflects on finding hope and identity during her four years in prison, emphasizing the struggle of reclaiming one's self after societal misconceptions. Her powerful narrative highlights resilience, the importance of connection with fellow inmates, and the ongoing quest for justice.
Mar 31, 2025 • 41min
Extreme Makeover: Personality Edition
Olga Khazan, a science writer for The Atlantic and author of 'Me But Better', shares her candid journey to reshape her neurotic personality. She discusses the surprising power of personality change and her year-long quest to shift from negativity to self-improvement. Olga reveals how introspection led her to confront challenges stemming from anxiety and introversion while embracing experiences like improv to enhance her social skills. Listeners explore the complexities of personality development and the joy of embracing change.
Mar 17, 2025 • 43min
How to Say No
In this insightful discussion, organizational psychologist Sunita Sah, a professor at Cornell University, delves into the challenges of saying no amidst societal pressures. She unpacks the art of defiance, showcasing how it's a skill we can develop. Sunita shares personal stories, highlighting the complexities of asserting boundaries, especially in medical settings. She introduces a five-stage framework for navigating uncomfortable situations, emphasizing that saying no can actually signify personal strength and growth.
5 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 33min
The Case Against ‘Feeling Your Feelings’
Join psychologist Ethan Kross, an expert in emotion science and author of 'Shift,' as he challenges the notion that emotions are simply good or bad. He emphasizes the importance of viewing emotions as valuable signals that can guide behavior. Kross debunks the myth that we must fully engage with negative feelings to move past them. Instead, he shares practical strategies for emotional regulation and highlights how music and scent can be used effectively to enhance emotional well-being.
Feb 24, 2025 • 34min
New Year, Old You? We Got You.
Katy Milkman, a Professor of Behavioral Economics at the University of Pennsylvania and author of "How to Change," shares her insights on making lasting New Year’s resolutions. She discusses the 'fresh start effect,' demonstrating how pivotal moments can motivate change. Katy introduces 'temptation bundling'—pairing enjoyable activities with less appealing tasks—to enhance motivation. Additionally, she examines commitment devices that foster accountability, emphasizing how small choices can lead to significant life transformations.
4 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 33min
How To Be A More Trustworthy Person
Rachel Botsman, an Oxford University professor and trust expert, shares insights from her audiobook on cultivating trust. She discusses the subtle signals we send in relationships and how trust is essential in every interaction. Kim Radestitz, a dedicated high school Spanish teacher, emphasizes the importance of earning students' trust through empathy and consistent actions. Together, they explore practical strategies for fostering reliability and integrity, ensuring trust remains the foundation of all connections.
Jan 27, 2025 • 35min
BONUS: Make Your Inner Voice Work For You
Ethan Kross, a psychologist specializing in introspection, discusses how to manage the inner voice and reduce negativity. Modupe Akinola, known for her stress research, redefines stress as a potentially beneficial force that can enhance performance. Kristen Neff, an expert in self-compassion, emphasizes treating oneself with kindness to foster personal growth. Together, they explore techniques for transforming inner dialogue, embracing stress positively, and the importance of self-compassion in navigating life's challenges.
Dec 16, 2024 • 37min
The Secret to a Good Conversation
Charles Duhigg, a journalist and author of "Supercommunicators," shares insights into what makes conversations meaningful. He discusses the science behind effective dialogue, emphasizing deep questions that unlock emotions and perspectives. Duhigg highlights the importance of empathy in communication and offers techniques for fostering connections, both personally and professionally. Personal anecdotes and scientific research illustrate how mastering these skills can enhance relationships and contribute to overall well-being.
Dec 9, 2024 • 32min
Breaking Free From Family Beliefs
Safiya Sinclair, a talented writer and poet from Jamaica, shares her journey of breaking free from a strict Rastafari upbringing. She dives into the challenges of escaping her father's oppressive rules and the exploration of her identity. Discover how poetry became her outlet for self-expression, empowering her even through transformative moments like cutting her dreadlocks. Safiya's story is a compelling testament to personal growth and the quest for individuality amidst familial expectations.
