When I think about the fastest, most creative teams I’ve ever seen, they all share the same blueprint: trust creates safety, safety fuels risk, risk sparks creativity, and flow binds it all together.That’s why I brought two of my favorite creative leaders into this conversation—Ivy Ross, VP of Design at Google, who has reshaped the look and feel of fifty-plus products and won hundreds of awards, and Jody Levy, serial entrepreneur and former CEO of Summit, the legendary community of creators and change agents.What I love about this episode is that Ivy and Jody don’t deal in abstractions. They talk about how they actually build cultures where people move faster, see further, and flow together.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:Kill fight-or-flight before it kills creativity. Most companies live in survival mode. Ivy and Jody show how trust and psychological safety pull people back into the “green zone,” where creativity thrives.Rehearse the future until it feels inevitable. Strategy isn’t just a plan—it’s a story rehearsed so vividly that people can’t help but believe and move toward it.Intuition is compressed expertise. Our best calls don’t come from spreadsheets. They come from years of pattern recognition surfacing as a hunch you can trust.—StevenP.S. Over 300,000 readers get my weekly newsletter translating neuroscience research—llike how to build high-speed creative teams—into practical strategies for flow, focus, and performance.Join them here: https://www.stevenkotler.com/ytGuest Bios:Ivy Ross is the Vice President of Design for the Hardware organization at Google. Over the past six years, she and her team have launched 50+ products, winning over 240 global design awards. This collection of hardware established a new Google design aesthetic that is tactile, colorful, and bold. A winner of a National Endowment for the Arts grant, Ivy’s innovative metal work in jewelry is in the permanent collections of 12 international museums. Ivy has held executive positions ranging from head of product design and development to CMO and presidencies of several companies, including Calvin Klein, Swatch, Coach, Mattel, Bausch & Lomb, and Gap. Ninth on Fast Company’s list of the 100 Most Creative People in Business 2019, Ivy believes the intersection of arts and science is where the most engaging and creative ideas are found. Most recently, Ivy co-authored with Susan Magsamen Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. Jody Levy is an artist, a systems thinker, and a serial entrepreneur who’s built everything from WTRMLN WTR, a category-defining beverage brand, to NeuroPraxis, a platform bridging the gap left by one-size-fits-all approaches to brain and spinal cord injury rehab. She also leads large-scale recovery operations and is the former CEO of Summit—the legendary community of creators, builders, and change agents. Jody’s work lives at the intersection of wellness, innovation, and impact. She has a rare ability to turn bold ideas into real-world systems for healing, creativity, and human optimization. In This Episode:00:00 Unlocking the Blueprint for Team Flow04:30 The Unexpected Partnership That Sparked Big Ideas16:55 Reinvention Strategies from the Trenches19:21 Why Trust Is the Ultimate Speed Hack21:27 Rituals That Turn Safety Into Creativity26:10 Rehearsing the Future to Accelerate the Present30:59 What Navy SEALs Can Teach Us About Flow41:14 The Hidden Costs (and Payoffs) of Collaboration1:00:21 Training Intuition as a Leadership Superpower1:10:13 How Great Leaders Sustain Creative EnergyFollow Steven Koter:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStevenKotlerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenkotler/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenkotler/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.stevenkotler.com/Flow Radio Is Presented By Steven Kotler’s Flow Research Collective
Karl Friston is one of the most influential neuroscientists alive. He pioneered the methods that underpin modern brain imaging and developed the Free Energy Principle—considered by many neuroscientists to be the closest thing we have to a general theory of intelligence.In this conversation with Dr. Michael Mannino and me, Friston explains why your brain doesn’t just record reality—it invents it. Perception is best understood as a “controlled hallucination”: the brain generates models of the world, then tests them against incoming data.We dig into what this means for consciousness, resilience, and performance.Why intuition works as your brain’s shortcut for reducing uncertaintyHow flow states and psychedelics both relax rigid brain assumptions—unlocking clarity and creativityWhy mental health challenges like depression, PTSD, and addiction often stem from overly rigid neural networks.How attention functions as a lever for healing, flexibility, and peak performanceFriston shows how predictive coding and metastability express ancient evolutionary mechanisms for creativity, resilience, and recovery—and how new science helps us apply these processes to amplify health and performance over time.If you want a deeper grasp of how your brain constructs reality—and how to shape that construction through flow—this is the episode to watch.Guest Bio: Dr. Karl Friston is a theoretical neuroscientist and one of the most influential figures in modern brain science. He invented statistical parametric mapping, voxel-based morphometry, and dynamic causal modeling—methods that have become foundational to brain imaging. He also developed the Free Energy Principle, a unifying framework for action and perception that’s been called the closest thing we have to a general theory of intelligence.Across his career, Karl has earned nearly every major accolade in neuroscience, from the Minerva Golden Brain Award to the Glass Brain Award for lifetime achievement in human brain mapping. He’s a Fellow of the Royal Society, the Royal Society of Biology, the Academia Europaea, and EMBO.And he’s also a collaborator with us here at the Flow Research Collective. Together we’ve published two recent papers—just last week in Nature: Communications Biology on Pathfinding: a neurodynamical account of intuition, and earlier in Neuroscience of Consciousness on Flow and intuition: a systems neuroscience comparison.In This Episode:05:38 Birth of the Free Energy Principle09:09 Theoretical vs. Computational Neuroscience11:06 What the Free Energy Principle Actually Means17:42 Intuition as Inference24:15 Flow, Uncertainty, and Prediction29:39 Flow, Psychedelics & PTSD38:12 Cognitive Bias & Relaxing Priors49:55 Flow as Neuroprotective1:03:20 Metastability: The Brain’s Flexibility Principle 1:12:36 From Theory to Practice Episode Resources:Join 300,000+ members on our weekly newsletter for more neuroscience-based tools delivered straight to your inbox: → Subscribe hereCheck out a few of the papers featured in this episode below:Pathfinding: A Neurodynamical Account of Intuition: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-025-08612-9Flow and intuition: a systems neuroscience comparison: https://academic.oup.com/nc/article/2025/1/niae040/7942876Flow Radio Is Presented By Steven Kotler’s Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. Follow Steven Koter:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStevenKotlerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenkotler/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenkotler/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.stevenkotler.com/
AI is moving faster than most of us can comprehend. But what if our edge isn’t in outthinking machines—but in outflowing them?In this episode, Steven Kotler sits down with two of the sharpest minds shaping our technological future: Peter Diamandis, founder of the XPRIZE and a pioneer of exponential thinking, and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X and bestselling author of Scary Smart. Together, they unpack how artificial intelligence is changing everything—from productivity and purpose to risk, resilience, and what it means to stay human at speed.If you're feeling overwhelmed by the pace of change, this episode offers tools rooted in neuroscience, performance psychology, and hard-earned experience at the bleeding edge of innovation.You'll Learn:Why intuition, context, and creativity are still uniquely human superpowers.How to use flow states to outperform exponential tech (instead of being crushed by it).Why training risk tolerance and recovery are essential survival skills in a synthetic world.How AI mirrors our attention patterns—and what that means for your daily habits.The difference between linear and vertical evolution—and why most people are stuck in the wrong model.Guest Bios:Peter Diamandis: Recently named one of Fortune’s “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders,” Peter Diamandis is the Founder and Executive Chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, which has launched over $500 million in incentive prize competitions. He also founded Singularity University and has started more than 25 companies in healthtech, space, venture capital, and education.Diamandis is Co-founder and Vice-Chairman of Celularity and Vaxxinity, and Chairman of Fountain Life—a platform for predictive, preventative, and data-driven health. He also co-founded BOLD Capital Partners, a $500 million fund investing in exponential technologies and longevity companies.A four-time New York Times bestselling author, his books include Abundance, BOLD, The Future is Faster Than You Think, LIFE FORCE (with Tony Robbins), and LONGEVITY: Your Practical Playbook.Mo Gawdat: Mo Gawdat is the former Chief Business Officer of Google [X]; host of the popular podcast, Slo Mo: A Podcast with Mo Gawdat; author of the international bestselling books Solve for Happy; Scary Smart; That Little Voice in Your Head; and Unstressable; founder of One Billion Happy; and Chief AI Officer of Flight Story.After a 30 year career in tech and serving as Chief Business Officer at Google [X], Google's 'moonshot factory' of innovation, Mo has made happiness his primary topic of research, diving deeply into literature and conversing on the topic with some of the wisest people in the world. In recent years, he has focused on the dangerous implications of rapid AI development.In This Episode:02:15 The False Promise of AI Productivity06:41 Why Flow Beats the Busy Trap11:02 Synthetic Intelligence, Human Reflection17:48 You Can’t Outthink AI—But You Can Outflow It23:05 Risk Tolerance: The Real Cognitive Upgrade29:17 The Burnout Feedback Loop36:44 Training Your Brain for Warp Speed42:10 How AI Mirrors Your Attention Patterns 48:19 Peak Performance as an Existential Choice55:31The Human Advantage: Intuition, Context, CreativityFlow Radio Is Presented By Steven Kotler’s Flow Research Collective.Follow Steven Kotler:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStevenKotlerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenkotler/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenkotler/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.stevenkotler.com/Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.Join 300,000+ members on our weekly newsletter for more neuroscience-based tools delivered straight to your inbox: → Subscribe here
What if your gut instinct was more than a hunch? What if it was your brain’s first navigation system—designed to reduce uncertainty, minimize surprise, and keep you alive?In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler and neuroscientist Dr. Michael Mannino crack open the black box of intuition. Along with co-authors Karl Friston, György Buzsáki, J.A. Scott Kelso, and Guillaume Dumas, they’ve just completed a new scientific paper—Pathfinding: A Neurodynamical Account of Intuition—set to be published this summer in Nature Communications Biology.Thirty years in the making, the paper proposes a bold model: intuition as pathfinding. Not magic. Not precognition. But an embodied, neurodynamic process built to help us make the next best move—fast.From hippocampal sharp wave ripples to attractor landscapes and the free energy principle, Kotler and Mannino break down how your brain runs compressed simulations of the past to predict the future. You’ll learn how intuition differs from insight, why instincts often lead us astray in matters of sex and money, and how novel environments can help you tap into opportunistic assimilation—a key to creativity and problem-solving.You'll Learn:Why intuition is a movement-based, evolutionarily ancient survival mechanismThe role of hippocampal “sharp wave ripples” in solving problems while you sleep—and while you moveHow to train your “prepared mind” to boost intuitive decision-makingWhy intuition is fast, embodied, and predictive—and what that means for agency, flow, and peak performanceHow the brain uses the free energy principle to minimize surprise and optimize action→ This is neuroscience with bite. A gut-check for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Should I trust my instinct?”In This Episode:05:13 Defining Intuition: Pathfinding in the Brain18:06 Neuroscience Behind Intuition24:11 The Role of Memory and Problem Solving in Intuition30:00 Theoretical Frameworks: Free Energy Principle and Meta-Stability37:00 700% More Creative? Flow Science Explained40:38 Exploring Intuition and Decision Making43:52 Neuroscience of Intuition and Action47:02 The Role of Feedback in Intuition 54:50 Delta Waves and Intuition58:42 Meta-Stability and MultitaskingJoin 300,000+ members on our weekly newsletter for more neuroscience-based tools delivered straight to your inbox: → Subscribe hereFollow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollectiveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollectiveX: https://twitter.com/thefrc_officialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollectiveSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.flowresearchcollective.comFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective
What do DIY entrepreneurship, peak performance, and punk rock have in common? Everything.In this live Flow Radio episode, recorded at Summit at Sea 2024, New York Times bestselling author and FRC Executive Director Steven Kotler joins fashion icon John Varvatos to trace the rebel spirit from CBGB’s to Silicon Valley. Together, they map how the kids nobody wanted—punks, misfits, and rule-breakers—accidentally built the culture of innovation we live in today.This isn’t just music history. It’s a neuroscience-backed deep dive into how rebellion, risk, and raw self-expression create the perfect storm for flow—and why punk’s anti-authoritarian DNA became the blueprint for startup culture, action sports, and social movements.If you’re chasing innovation, impact, or just trying to stay sane while breaking things—there’s flow on the other side of risk. Go get it.Guest Bio:John Varvatos is an award-winning fashion designer, cultural curator, and lifelong rebel.Best known for fusing rock-and-roll attitude with high-end tailoring, he launched his namesake brand in 2000 and has since earned multiple CFDA Designer of the Year awards. He’s also the force behind the revival of CBGB—the legendary punk venue turned retail and cultural space.From the Bowery to boardrooms, Varvatos has spent decades channeling the punk ethos into business, design, and live music. His work sits at the intersection of culture, entrepreneurship, and radical self-expression—making him not just a fashion icon, but a builder of movements.In This Episode:03:30 Punk as Evolutionary Instinct06:45 The DIY Revolution Begins10:55 The Neuroscience Behind the Movement14:30 Group Flow, Mosh Pits & the End of the Stage Dive18:15 From Subculture to Startup Culture25:00 Punk Values: Radical Individuality to DIY Capitalism30:45 Rebellion Goes Mainstream36:00 The New Punk: Entrepreneurs, Artists & Conscious Rebels38:20 Final Words from the MoshpitEpisode Resources:Steven returns to Summit this June in Detroit—a city that pulses with creativity, reinvention, and raw energy.Join a one-of-a-kind gathering of visionaries, builders, and creators. This one won’t be forgotten.→ Learn more & apply to attendFootage shot at Summit At Sea 2024, courtesy of Summit Series, © Summit Series.Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. Follow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollectiveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollectiveX: https://twitter.com/thefrc_officialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollectiveSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.flowresearchcollective.comFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
No one is coming to save you—but staying stuck isn’t the only option.Steven Kotler and Ryan Wickes welcome back Columbia professor and humanistic psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman—author of the just-released Rise Above, and one of today’s leading voices on human potential.Kaufman joins to unpack the victim mindset, the neurobiology of agency, and how narcissism, entitlement, and impostor syndrome can quietly block the path to self-actualization.At the heart of this conversation is a powerful truth: flow demands agency. When we feel powerless, we avoid challenge—and without challenge, there is no flow. A victim mindset disrupts the neural circuitry behind motivation, focus, and drive.This episode breaks down the science of that disruption—and maps out a way through. From learned helplessness to learned hopefulness, you’ll hear how reclaiming agency reactivates your growth, unlocks flow, and strengthens resilience.The journey is personal. The tools are universal.Guest Bio:Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman is a humanistic psychologist, Columbia University professor, and one of the world’s leading experts on intelligence, creativity, and human potential. Ranked in the top 1% of most-cited scientists worldwide, he’s the founder of Self-Actualization Coaching, director of the Center for Human Potential, and host of The Psychology Podcast (30M+ downloads). Named one of Business Insider’s 50 groundbreaking scientists, he’s authored 11 books—including Transcend, Choose Growth, and his latest, Rise Above.In This Episode:03:03 The Journey from Creativity to Self-Actualization06:07 Overcoming the Victim Mindset09:07 Neurobiology of Mindsets15:06 Understanding the Victim Mindset17:53 Evolutionary Perspectives on Victimhood20:53 Empathy and Honest Love25:29 Empowerment Through Adversity28:39 Challenging the Trauma Narrative32:39 Navigating the Victim Mindset45:12 Imposter Syndrome: A Signal for Growth52:08 Narcissism and WellbeingEpisode Resources:Self-Actualizing People in the 21st Century by Scott Barry KaufmanA modern, data-driven update to Maslow’s theory—complete with a validated scale and new insights into well-being, resilience, and creative expression.→ Read the full paperScott’s New Book — Rise AboveWant to go deeper on the science behind the victim mindset, resilience, and human potential?Grab Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman’s latest book, Rise Above… → scottbarrykaufman.com/books/rise-aboveFlow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. Follow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollectiveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollectiveX: https://twitter.com/thefrc_officialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollectiveSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.flowresearchcollective.comFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Creativity isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a survival skill.In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler sits down with artist, designer, and serial entrepreneur Jody Levy for a conversation on how intuition, constraint, and ritual unlock creativity—and why all three are non-negotiables for high-performance leadership.They trace Jody’s path through experience design and explore the mindset behind building high-flow communities. From the tactical to the transcendent, this episode delivers real tools—and ends with a major announcement: the Summit community is coming to Detroit. It’s a rare chance to catch Steven live, speaking on flow, AI, and the future of creativity.If you're chasing innovation, collaboration, and community at full tilt—don’t miss it.Guest Bio:Jody Levy is an artist, systems thinker, and serial entrepreneur whose work lives at the intersection of wellness, innovation, and impact.She’s the founder of WTRMLN WTR, the category-defining beverage brand; the creator of NeuroPraxis, a breakthrough platform for brain and spinal cord recovery; and a leader in large-scale trauma and disaster response. Today, she serves as the Global Director and CEO of Summit—the legendary community of creators, builders, and change agents.Jody has a rare ability to turn bold ideas into real-world systems for healing, creativity, and human optimization.In This Episode:02:51 The Journey of Creativity and Flow05:49 The Role of Art in Emotional Regulation08:58 Intuition and Decision-Making in Entrepreneurship11:50 Constraints as Catalysts for Creativity17:48 Building High-Impact Experiences29:53 The Importance of Structure in Creative Environments31:06 Cultivating Flow in Teams36:25 The Power of Rituals41:04 Time Management and Leadership46:32 Optimizing Community Engagement52:37 Preserving the Magic in GrowthSummit DetroitThis June, Steven will be joining forces with Summit (once again) in Detroit—a city that pulses with creativity, reinvention, and raw energy. Join an unforgettable gathering of visionaries, builders, and creators.→ Learn more & apply to attendFlow Radio is Presented Bt Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. Follow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollectiveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollectiveX: https://twitter.com/thefrc_officialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollectiveSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.flowresearchcollective.comFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.Guest Bio:In This Episode:Episode Resources:Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective
What happens when AI takes center stage—and humans still want to create?Steven Kotler returns to Peter Diamandis’s Moonshots to unpack the forces shaping our future: AI, abundance, creativity, and how flow fuels the human advantage. Drawing on three decades at the bleeding edge of peak performance, they explore what it takes to thrive in a world accelerating beyond imagination—and why the right 100 people can still change everything.This is required listening for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone building in the age of machines. If the future belongs to the bold, flow is your blueprint.Guest Bio:Recently named one of Fortune’s “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders,” Peter Diamandis is the Founder and Executive Chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, which has launched over $500 million in incentive prize competitions. He also founded Singularity University and has started more than 25 companies in healthtech, space, venture capital, and education.Diamandis is Co-founder and Vice-Chairman of Celularity and Vaxxinity, and Chairman of Fountain Life—a platform for predictive, preventative, and data-driven health. He also co-founded BOLD Capital Partners, a $500 million fund investing in exponential technologies and longevity companies.A four-time New York Times bestselling author, his books include Abundance, BOLD, The Future is Faster Than You Think, LIFE FORCE (with Tony Robbins), and LONGEVITY: Your Practical Playbook.He holds degrees in molecular genetics and aerospace engineering from MIT and an M.D. from Harvard Medical School. His motto: “The best way to predict the future is to create it yourself.”In This Episode:05:42 Tech Tipping Points: From Tesla to GPT-410:04 Understanding Flow States14:00 Flow & Craft29:51 Facing the Fermi Paradox: What Comes Next?37:00 700% More Creative? Flow Science Explained57:37 The XPRIZE & Cross-Disciplinary Breakthroughs01:19:31 Mindset as Neurobiology, Not Woo-Woo01:30:31 The Age of AI Companions01:19:31 Mindset and Resilience01:57:37 How 100 People Shift Culture02:09:17 Inside The Alliance: Creativity, Flow, and the Future of LearningEpisode Resources:The Alliance is a hyper-curated 15-person think tank where we train creativity and collaborate with one another.The Alliance is made up of visionary, entrepreneurs and thought leaders looking to accelerate their creative process and realize their next breakthrough→ Apply to join todayFlow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. Follow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollectiveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollectiveLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollectiveX: https://twitter.com/thefrc_officialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollectiveSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6AWebsite: https://www.flowresearchcollective.comFlow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
What happens when you reach such extreme states of pain that you start having out-of-body experiences? Join us for a fascinating conversation with James Lawrence (aka the Iron Cowboy) about redefining human limits, managing pain through flow states, and what happens when you push beyond what doctors claim is impossible. James shares his raw truth about overcoming the voice of doubt, achieving out-of-body flow experiences, and why your next step won't kill you—even when everything in your body screams otherwise. From his early days riding a Ferris wheel for ten straight days in a contest of who could stay bored the longest to becoming a world record holder, this is a masterclass in human potential. In This Episode: 05:04 The Journey to Endurance Sports 10:04 Understanding Flow States 14:53 Managing the Internal Bully 19:58 The 50-50-50 Challenge 25:06 The Conquer 100 Experience 36:37 The Power of Flow in Peak Performance 38:11 Mastering Monotony for Success 40:19 Embracing the Impossible 50:15 Mindset and Resilience 56:39 Recovery and Adaptation 01:01:35 Intuition and Flow Experiences About The Guest: James Lawrence, more commonly known as the Iron Cowboy, is a world-renowned speaker, endurance athlete, 2x author, and 2x documentary subject. He received his nickname from the public after he started to wear a cowboy hat during races to be recognized by his children. With two Guinness world records under his belt, James and his family attempted to do something every person deemed impossible, the 50/50/50. However, that wasn't enough to satisfy him. On June 8, 2021, James achieved a remarkable milestone known as the Conquer 100—a series of 100 consecutive full-distance triathlons, as coined by the team. Sports Illustrated ranked James in the top 50 fittest freaks with Lebron James and Connor McGregor, two of James' favorite athletes. Originally from Calgary, Canada, he now lives in Utah with his wife, Sunny, and their five children. His family plays a crucial role in his endeavors, providing unwavering support through his remarkable journey. Episode Resources: Book: Iron Hope: Lessons Learned from Conquering the Impossible - January 21, 2025 Website: Ironcowboy.com Social: @ironcowboyjames Learn more: https://linktr.ee/ironcowboyjames Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Flow—your brain's gateway drug to the infinite game. How far could you push your performance if you knew exactly what your brain was capable of? In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Steven Kotler and Dr. Michael Mannino answer questions from people around the world who use their work to unlock more flow. They share mind-bending insights about "getting into the zone"—insights that have helped world-class athletes and entrepreneurs break through their perceived limitations. Through candid stories and cutting-edge research, they show exactly how anyone can tap into these optimal states of consciousness—whether you're hurling yourself down mountains or seeking deeper connections in your everyday life. The question isn't whether you can access these states. The question is: what will you do once you know how? Warning: Side effects include the uncontrollable drive to truly live your life. In This Episode: 01:01 Endurance & Scripting 20:27 Clear Goals: Risk vs. Reward 29:00 ADHD, Flow States, and Peak Performance 41:00 Neurodivergence Debate: Rethinking Labels 49:19 Flow States in Healing and Therapy 54:54 Teacher-Student Flow Dynamics 1:00:04 Psychoneuroimmunology and Healing 1:03:04 Individual vs. Group Flow States 1:07:36 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes About The Guest: Steven Kotler is a New York Times-bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and the co-founder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective. He is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is the author of eleven bestsellers (out of fourteen books), including The Art of Impossible, The Future is Faster Than You Think, Stealing Fire, The Rise of Superman, Bold and Abundance. His work has been nominated for three Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over sixty languages, and has appeared in over 110 publications, including academic journals such as Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews and Psychophysiology, and mainstream publications like The New York Times Magazine, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and the Harvard Business Review. Dr. Michael Mannino is the Director of Programs at the University of Miami's Institute for Data Science and Computing, focusing on AI projects across various domains. He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience and a Master’s in philosophy, with expertise in embodied cognition, critical thinking, and the philosophy of mind. As a professor of philosophy and ethics for over a decade, Michael integrates his academic background with a passion for peak performance, flow science, and the mind-body connection. He is also an athlete, musician, and avid learner, and serves on the Singularity University Miami Chapter. Episode Resources: Paper: A framework for neurophysiological experiments on flow states Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Flow—your brain's gateway drug to the infinite game. In this episode of Afterthoughts, Steven Kotler reveals how flow states unlock doors to possibilities we never knew existed. Joined by neuroscientist Dr. Michael Mannino and host Ryan Wickes, the team explores how flow can revolutionize aging. Building on Steven's conversation with Modern Elder Academy founder Chip Conley, they examine why time slows in flow, how brains sync in groups, and why curiosity defends against aging. Tune in for practical insights for maintaining vitality throughout life. This isn't just theory—it's a roadmap to unlocking your brain's natural anti-aging mechanisms. From neuroplasticity to cognitive reserve, discover how flow might be the fountain of youth we seek. Join the discussion by leaving your questions for future Afterthoughts episodes in the comments. In This Episode: 02:30 Gateway Drug to the Infinite Game 14:30 Time Perception Changes 19:05 Zombie Cells and Inflammation 27:03 Training Creativity 31:00 Recovery and Flow Triggers 39:40 Group Flow Synchronization 44:20 Curiosity and Neural Networks 49:15 AI and Flow Research 52:30 The Hippocampus and New Neurons 54:30 Language Learning and Flow About The Guest: Steven Kotler is a New York Times-bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and the cofounder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective. He is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is the author of eleven bestsellers (out of fourteen books), including The Art of Impossible, The Future is Faster Than You Think, Stealing Fire, The Rise of Superman, Bold and Abundance. His work has been nominated for three Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over sixty languages, and has appeared in over 110 publications, including academic journals such as Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews and Psychophysiology, and mainstream publications like The New York Times Magazine, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and the Harvard Business Review. Dr. Michael Mannino is the Director of Programs at the University of Miami's Institute for Data Science and Computing, focusing on AI projects across various domains. He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience and a Master’s in philosophy, with expertise in embodied cognition, critical thinking, and the philosophy of mind. As a professor of philosophy and ethics for over a decade, Michael integrates his academic background with a passion for peak performance, flow science, and the mind-body connection. He is also an athlete, musician, and avid learner, and serves on the Singularity University Miami Chapter. Episode Resources: Books: The Wisdom Paradox by Elkhonon Goldberg The Art of Impossible by Steven Kotler The Mature Mind by Gene Cohen The Mindful Body by Ellen J. Langer Aging Well by George Vaillant The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner Research: David Eaglemen on Time Perception The Relationship between Flow Experience and Burnout Symptoms: A Systematic Review What is cognitive reserve? Theory and research application of the reserve concept First few seconds for flow: A comprehensive proposal of the neurobiology and neurodynamics of state onset Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning more click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance.
Think performance peaks when you're "young"? Think again. Research shows you can unlock a surprising set of superpowers as you age. In this episode of Flow Radio, peak performance expert Steven Kotler sits down with Chip Conley to explore how older minds excel at pattern recognition, complex problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. You'll learn why age brings unique advantages in both business and life. Conley shares insights from his time as Airbnb's Head of Global Hospitality, where they called him their "modern elder." Today, he runs the Modern Elder Academy, teaching people how to thrive in midlife and beyond. Tune in to discover why your best years might still be ahead—and how to make the most of them. In This Episode: 00:00 The Birth of a Modern Elder 07:52 The Hidden Advantages of Aging Brains 13:35 The Midlife Crisis Myth 18:48 Why We Need Midlife Wisdom Schools 23:55 Becoming a Beginner Again 29:15 Flow States and Longevity32:45 Breaking Down Age Apartheid 35:22 The Longevity Paradox36:51 Beyond Lifespan: Intro to Zest Span About The Guest: Successful hospitality entrepreneur and bestselling author Chip Conley is on a mission to reframe our relationship with aging. As the founder of MEA, the world's first midlife wisdom school with regenerative communities, Conley is disrupting both the idea of higher education and senior living. He has both a BA and MBA from Stanford University and an Honorary PhD in Psychology from Saybrook University. He’s been a TED speaker at the prestigious annual conference multiple times. Episode Resources: Website: https://chipconley.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipconleysf/ X: https://x.com/ChipConley Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chipconley/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/chip.conley.3/ Modern Elder Academy: https://www.meawisdom.com/ Chip’s Books: https://chipconley.com/my-books/ Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Believe the hype—art can transform your life.In this episode of Flow Radio, hosts Steven Kotler, Dr. Michael Mannino, and Ryan Wickes explore the powerful connections between creativity, longevity, and the future of human-AI collaboration. Tune in for a fresh look at how an “aesthetic mindset” influences aging, cognitive health, and the amount of flow in your life. Plus, get the low down on how partnering with AI can boost your creative potential far beyond a run-of-the-mill brainstorm. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting practical tips to lead a happier, healthier, and more creative life. Join the discussion by leaving your questions for future Afterthoughts episodes in the comments. In This Episode: 01:36 Art vs. Altruism 04:06 Creativity and Longevity 06:19 The Role of AI in Future Jobs 11:10 Wisdom and Creativity as We Age 17:32 Brain Damage and Creativity 28:27 Hacking Creativity with Daydreaming35:12 Microflow and Daily Art Practice 42:08 Can AI Be Truly Creative? About The Guest: Steven Kotler is a New York Times-bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and the co-founder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective. He is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is the author of eleven bestsellers (out of fourteen books), including The Art of Impossible, The Future is Faster Than You Think, Stealing Fire, The Rise of Superman, Bold and Abundance. His work has been nominated for three Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over sixty languages, and has appeared in over 110 publications, including academic journals such as Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews and Psychophysiology, and mainstream publications like The New York Times Magazine, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and the Harvard Business Review. Dr. Michael Mannino is the Director of Programs at the University of Miami's Institute for Data Science and Computing, focusing on AI projects across various domains. He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience and a Master’s in philosophy, with expertise in embodied cognition, critical thinking, and the philosophy of mind. As a professor of philosophy and ethics for over a decade, Michael integrates his academic background with a passion for peak performance, flow science, and the mind-body connection. He is also an athlete, musician, and avid learner, and serves on the Singularity University Miami Chapter. Episode Resources: Book: Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross Book: The Mature Mind: The Positive Power of the Aging Brain by Gene Cohen Book: The Wisdom Paradox: How Your Mind Can Grow Stronger As Your Brain Grows Older by Elkhonon Goldberg Article: Eric Kandel’s Research on Aesthetic Experience Podcast: John Kounios on Mood and Creativity Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler and Dr. Michael Mannino sit down with Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross, co-authors of Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. These groundbreaking experts explain how making and experiencing art changes the way we think, feel, and perform. From our ancient past to cutting-edge science, find out why art isn’t just beautiful—it’s fuel for your brain. Learn how just 20 minutes of creative practice can boost your mental edge, unlock more flow, and supercharge problem-solving. Plus, discover how AI is revolutionizing art creation and opening new frontiers in human-machine creativity. Tune in to unlock practical insights for tapping into your creative genius. In This Episode: 00:03 The Intersection of Art, Brain, and Performance 02:11 How Susan and Ivy Became Pioneers in Their Fields 05:04 Bridging Art and Science 09:10 Why We're Wired for Art 14:22 Art as Medicine 22:52 Flow States and Creativity 30:57 Current Research 37:46 Daily Practices for Enhancing Creativity 43:24 AI and Art 48:22 Why Neuroesthetics Matters for Everyone About The Guest: Ivy Ross is the Vice President of Design for the Hardware organization at Google. Over the past six years, she and her team have launched 50+ products winning over 240 global design awards. This collection of hardware established a new Google design aesthetic that is tactile, colorful, and bold. A winner of a National Endowment for the Arts grant, Ivy’s innovative metal work in jewelry is in the permanent collections of 12 international museums. Ivy has held executive positions ranging from head of product design and development to CMO and presidencies of several companies, including Calvin Klein, Swatch, Coach, Mattel, Bausch & Lomb, and Gap. Ninth on Fast Company’s list of the 100 Most Creative People in Business 2019, Ivy believes the intersection of arts and science is where the most engaging and creative ideas are found. Most recently, Ivy co-authored with Susan Magsamen Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. Susan Magsamen is the executive director of the International Arts + Mind Lab (IAM Lab), Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics, a pioneering neuroaesthetics initiative from the Pedersen Brain Science Institute at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She is the co-director of the NeuroArts Blueprint with the Aspen Institute and co-author of the New York Times Bestseller, Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. Susan studies how the arts and aesthetic experiences measurably change the brain, body, and behavior and how this knowledge can be translated to inform health, wellbeing and learning in medicine, public health and education. Episode Resources: Book website: Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us Lab: The International Arts + Mind Lab Social: YourBrainonArtBook Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/ Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
In this Afterthoughts episode of Flow Radio, hosts Ryan Wickes, Steven Kotler, and Dr. Michael Mannino revisit their recent conversation with Dr. Jack Feldman, diving deeper into the neuroscience of breathing and its impact on peak performance. Building on Dr. Feldman's groundbreaking research, the hosts explore: The surprising links between breathing techniques and psychedelic experiences How different types of breathwork might open various "neuroplastic windows" in the brain The complex relationship between breathing patterns and flow states across different activities The potential of short, 5-minute breathing exercises for stress reduction This episode blends scientific insights with practical tips for everyday life, offering valuable takeaways for scientists, peak performers, and anyone curious about the power of breath. Join the discussion by leaving your questions for future Afterthoughts episodes in the comments. In This Episode: 0:00 Introduction 05:48 The Surprising Link Between Breathing and Emotion 14:57 How Interoception Enhances Flow and Peak Performance 20:09 Can Breathwork Unlock Neuroplasticity? 22:49 Breathwork and Psychedelics 40:38 Meditation vs. Breathwork: Which is a Better Gateway? 45:29 The Role of Conscious Breathing in Enhancing Flow States About The Guest: Steven Kotler is a New York Times-bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and the cofounder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective. He is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is the author of eleven bestsellers (out of fourteen books), including The Art of Impossible, The Future is Faster Than You Think, Stealing Fire, The Rise of Superman, Bold and Abundance. His work has been nominated for three Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over sixty languages, and has appeared in over 110 publications, including academic journals such as Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews and Psychophysiology, and mainstream publications like The New York Times Magazine, Wired, Atlantic Monthly, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and the Harvard Business Review. Dr. Michael Mannino is the Director of Programs at the University of Miami's Institute for Data Science and Computing, focusing on AI projects across various domains. He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience and a Master’s in philosophy, with expertise in embodied cognition, critical thinking, and the philosophy of mind. As a professor of philosophy and ethics for over a decade, Michael integrates his academic background with a passion for peak performance, flow science, and the mind-body connection. He is also an athlete, musician, and avid learner, and serves on the Singularity University Miami Chapter. Episode Resources: Paper: Breathing Rhythm and Pattern and Their Influence on Emotion Article: Reengineering the Everglades Paper: The psychophysiology of flow during piano playing Interview: Holotropic Breathwork with Dr. Stanislav Grof Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: Flow Research Collective Instagram: Flow Research Collective LinkedIn: Flow Research Collective X: @thefrc_official Facebook: Flow Research Collective Spotify: Flow Radio Website: Flow Research Collective
In this episode of Flow Radio, we explore the intricate science of breathing with Dr. Jack Feldman, a world-renowned neuroscientist. Dr. Feldman, a professor at UCLA, has spent decades uncovering the secrets of how our brains control this vital function. His pioneering research has led to groundbreaking discoveries, such as identifying and naming a key brain area responsible for breathing rhythms. Tune in as Dr. Feldman, along with bestselling author Steven Kotler and Dr. Michael Mannino, break down: The neuroscience behind how we breathe The connection between breathwork and emotional health Why understanding breathing is crucial for peak performance Whether you’re curious about the science of breathing or looking for ways to improve your life, this episode is full of easy-to-understand insights and practical tips. In This Episode: 00:02 Introducing a Legend 03:32 Evolution of Breathing in Mammals 07:41 The Role of the Diaphragm in Breathing 10:58 Understanding Sighs: A Physiological and Emotional Perspective 15:21 The Evolutionary Advantage of Calming Sighs 19:00 Breathing Rhythms and Brain Function 22:27 Disrupting Neural Circuits for Mental Health 25:45 Breathwork and Synaptic Plasticity 30:55 The Connection Between Endorphins and Breathwork 42:05 The Link Between Breathing and Flow States About The Guest: Jack Feldman revolutionized our understanding of basic physiological processes controlled by the brain by identifying and characterizing brain sites critical for breathing. He discovered two discrete brain structures critical for regulating breathing. Combining cutting edge techniques, development of new experimental preparations, and expertise in a range of disciplines, Jack identified several critical breathing functions originating in these brain areas including generation of inspiratory (i.e., inhaling) and expiratory (i.e., exhaling) patterns for normal breathing and for sighing. Most recently, Jack and his colleagues investigated mechanisms by which changes in breathing patterns (e.g., breathing practice) can affect emotion and cognition. His research continues to explore how the brain controls breathing, paving the way for further clinically relevant discoveries of mechanisms underlying breathing-related diseases, including sleep apnea, neurodegenerative diseases, and the positive effects of breathing practice on emotion. Jack is a recipient of the Hodgkin Huxley Katz Prize, the 125th Faculty Research Lecture UCLA, and the National Institutes of Health Outstanding Investigator Award in 2017 and 2023. Episode Resources: Website A Snippet of Jack’s Research: Breathing Rhythm and Pattern and Their Influence on Emotion Microcircuit Synchronization and Heavy-Tailed Synaptic Weight Distribution Augment preBötzinger Complex Bursting Dynamics Emergent Elements of Inspiratory Rhythmogenesis: Network Synchronization and Synchrony Propagation Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com
In this episode of Flow Radio, we dive deep into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, creativity, and flow states. In his recent paper in Neuropsychologia, Dr. John Kounios and his team explored the neural mechanisms of creative flow during jazz improvisation. To indulge your curiosity for full-fledged geekery, Dr. Kounios, bestselling author Steven Kotler, and riff on: What EEG (electroencephalography) reveals about brain activity and flow states How cognitive control affects state changes The role of transient hypofrontality, especially in high-flow individuals The relationship between "aha" moments and flow The applied neuroscience of creative flow Tune in to get the rhythms of creative flow revealed and discover how to unleash your creative potential. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction 02:50 Steven’s Favorite Part of the Brain 07:29 Setting Up the Jazz Improv Study on Creative Flow 11:00 Type 1 & Type 2 Processes, Back to Kahneman 12:54 Transient Hypofrontality in High Flow People 15:30 Type Zero Cognition 17:00 Aha Moments and Flow 23:00 Creative Flow vs. Other Flow States 28:00 The Expert Knows to Let Go 30:55 The Brain Knows the Distance 36:45 Practical Advice for Creative Flow About The Guest: John Kounios is a Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Drexel University. He has published cognitive neuroscience research on insight, creativity, problem solving, memory, and Alzheimer’s disease and coauthored (with Mark Beeman) the international Amazon Bestseller, The Eureka Factor: Aha Moments, Creative Insight, and the Brain. John's research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation and has been reported by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Times (London), and National Public Radio and was featured in BBC Television and Discovery Science Channel documentaries. His work was profiled by The New Yorker and The Saturday Evening Post and is part of a permanent exhibit at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry. He is a Fellow of the Association for Psychological Science and the Psychonomic Society. Episode Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kounios-5242951a/ X: https://x.com/JohnKounios Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/ Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Can a cup of coffee do more than wake you up? In this episode of Flow Radio, host Ryan Wickes from the Flow Research Collective explores the effects of caffeine on flow states. Joined by Dr. Michael Mannino, Chief Science Officer, and Dr. Niklas Reich, neuroscientist and high-performance coach, they discuss how caffeine can increase the likelihood you drop into flow. Here's what you'll learn in this episode: The Science of Flow: Discover what flow states are, how they feel, and why they're the heartbeat of peak performance and creativity. Neuroprotective Benefits of Caffeine: Find out why drinking caffeine regularly can lower the risk of dementia and protect your brain. Mechanisms of Action: Understand how caffeine interacts with adenosine and dopamine receptors to keep you alert, focused, and motivated. Practical Tips: Dr. Reich shares actionable advice on how to strategically use caffeine to enter flow states with less fuss. Optimal Dosage and Timing: Learn the best ways to take caffeine, including the right amount and time to get the biggest bang for your cup without affecting your sleep. Tune in for an easy-to-follow and practical conversation about how caffeine can be an effective way to enter flow states. Whether you're a student, professional, or athlete, this episode gives you straightforward advice to make the most of caffeine to turbocharge your performance. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction 01:37 Neuroprotective Benefits of Caffeine 08:15 Caffeine and Dopamine 20:27 Caffeine as a Tool for Entering Flow 24:49 Mechanisms of Action 29:57 Practical Tips for Using Caffeine 40:00 Optimal Dosage 45:00 Caffeine’s Impact on Focus, Flow, and ADHD Management About The Guest: Niklas Reich, Ph.D. is a neuroscientist and high-performance coach. He works as a Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, focusing on Alzheimer's disease therapies. His research includes developing treatments that can protect our brains, which ties into how caffeine might help us today. He has a strong background in Alzheimer's research, having worked at Lancaster University with top researchers like David Allsop and Christian Holscher. His projects there involved creating peptide inhibitors and exploring new treatment options. Besides his scientific pursuits, Dr. Reich is a High Performance and Flow Coach trained by us at the Flow Research Collective. He helps people achieve their goals through self-improvement and a growth mindset. Episode Resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niklas-reich-ph-d-b1b41b140/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nick.p.reich Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
In this episode of Flow Radio, we dive deep into the intersection of positive psychology and business with the legendary hotelier and entrepreneur Chip Conley. Chip shares his journey from founding Joie de Vivre Hospitality to becoming the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy for Airbnb and his creation of the Modern Elder Academy. Discover how Chip leveraged concepts from Abraham Maslow, Carol Dweck, and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi to revolutionize employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and investor relations through the power of meaning, purpose, and flow. Tune in to learn practical strategies for integrating these ideas into your own business and life. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Chip Conley's Career 05:00 The Genesis of Meaning in Business 07:27 Meeting Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Learning About Flow 09:32 The Challenge-Skills Staircase Concept 18:27 Applying Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in Hospitality 23:24 Transforming Customer Experiences 26:29 Balancing Investor Expectations with Meaningful Business Practices 34:55 Positive Psychology at Airbnb 40:43 Super Hosts ROI 41:11 Creating a Can-Do Attitude with Autonomy 42:20 Incorporating Meaning for Hourly Workers 46:58 Closing Thoughts and Reflections About The Guest: Successful hospitality entrepreneur and bestselling author Chip Conley is on a mission to reframe our relationship with aging. As the founder of MEA, the world's first midlife wisdom school with regenerative communities, Conley is disrupting both the idea of higher education and senior living. He has both a BA and MBA from Stanford University and an Honorary PhD in Psychology from Saybrook University. He’s been a TED speaker at the prestigious annual conference multiple times Episode Resources: Website: https://chipconley.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipconleysf/ X: https://x.com/home?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chipconley/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chipconleyauthor Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Data from Gallup reveals disengaged employees cost the economy an estimated $1.9 trillion in lost productivity last year. Improving well-being is crucial but challenging. This is where flow states come in, overhauling mental health and positively impacting leadership and team dynamics. Creating a high-flow organization relies on culture as much as individual hires. By encouraging a flow-friendly culture, companies can boost motivation, creativity, and productivity. Companies like Toyota, Patagonia, and Exos have succeeded by embedding flow-centric values.Tune in to hear senior leaders from Exos , Steven Kotler, and Dr. Sarah Sarkis discuss integrating peak performance science into corporate culture. Guest Bios: Sarah Robb O’Hagan(SRO): Sarah Robb O’Hagan took the helm as CEO of Exos in 2020. She’s leading Exos' transformation from predominantly gym-based services to a fully omnichannel performance programs and coaching platform. Prior to Exos, she served as CEO of Flywheel, global president of Equinox and Gatorade, and held leadership roles at iconic brands like Virgin and Nike. Greg Hill: Greg Hill has been with Exos since 2020 as the company’s chief people officer. By advocating for and supporting the development of Exos team members, he leads people operations, talent acquisition, and culture development. Exos’ culture has been recognized as a certified Great Place to Work and Best Employer in Sports by Front Office Sports. Amanda Carlson-Phillips: Amanda leads the Exos performance innovation team, bringing cutting-edge solutions to clients and pioneering the human performance industry for almost 20 years. She joined Exos in 2003 and holds a master’s degree in sports/clinical nutrition and exercise physiology. In this episode: 0:00 Introduction 5:11 Burnt Out 8:30 The Solution Started with an Epic Fail 15:12 Initial Skepticism and Overcoming Doubts 20:03 Giving Yourself Over to Science 26:00 Can You Be a High-Performing Organization and Not Kill Your Employees? 32:31 Creating a Readiness Culture Code 45:31 Flow’s Impact on Leadership and Team Dynamics 51:50 Practical Steps to Implement Flow Episode Resources: Website:https://www.teamexos.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exos/ X: https://x.com/TeamEXOS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/team_exos Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamEXOS Four-Day Workweek Pilot: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/exos-four-day-workweek-pilot-reveals-a-winning-formula-for-achieving-business-success-without-sacrificing-employee-well-being-302103866.html Flow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research Collective Are you an entrepreneur, a leader, or a knowledge worker, who wants to harness the power of flow so you can get more done in less time with greater ease and accomplish your boldest professional goals faster? If the answer is yes, then our peak-performance training Zero To Dangerous may be a good fit for you. Flow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research and training company. If you’re interested in learning the science-backed techniques we used to train top executives at Facebook, Audi and even the Navy SEALs, click the link here: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/zero-to-dangerous/overview Follow Flow Research Collective: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective X: https://twitter.com/thefrc_official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A Website: https://www.flowresearchcollective.com Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.
Ehsan_E_B
some parts are better than his book!