The Non-Obvious Show

In this engaging conversation at Sydney SXSW, Tom Nash shares his unique perspective on overcoming adversity, the importance of humor in coping with trauma, and the concept of the nocebo effect. He discusses how his experiences have shaped his mindset as an 'anti-victim' and explores the idea of post-traumatic growth. Throughout the dialogue, Nash emphasizes the significance of curiosity and learning from others as driving forces in his life, ultimately inspiring listeners to rethink their own challenges and perspectives.   Takeaways The "nocebo effect" illustrates how negative expectations can hinder progress. Humor can be a powerful coping mechanism for dealing with trauma. Embracing one's scars can lead to increased confidence and grounding. Choosing to lean into one's unique circumstances can foster resilience. Post-traumatic growth is a real phenomenon that can lead to personal development. Curiosity drives personal exploration and learning. Sharing experiences can shift perspectives and inspire others. The journey of writing a book is iterative and reflective. Authenticity is crucial in pursuing one's passions and interests. Being an 'anti-victim' means recognizing one's fortune despite adversity.   Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Nocebo Effect 10:03 The Power of Humor in Coping 17:59 The Anti-Victim Mindset 24:16 Post-Traumatic Growth and Resilience 26:23 Curiosity as a Driving Force

Summary In this episode, the conversation explores the often-overlooked value of boredom in our hyper-connected world. The guests discuss how boredom can foster creativity, the impact of digital technology on our ability to be bored, and the societal implications of our relationship with boredom. They also delve into the future of boredom, suggesting it may become a sought-after experience as people seek to disconnect from constant stimulation.   Takeaways Boredom is becoming a premium product as people seek to disconnect. Creativity often flourishes in moments of boredom. Digital technology is diminishing our ability to be bored. Boredom can lead to self-reflection and personal growth. Mindfulness practices are often seen as more acceptable than boredom. Boredom is linked to feelings of loneliness in the digital age. Parents often feel pressured to fill their children's time to avoid boredom. Boredom can inspire innovative ideas and projects. The future may see a rise in digital detox camps and boredom retreats. Understanding boredom can help us reclaim our time and attention.   Chapters 00:00 The Value of Boredom 02:59 Boredom and Creativity 10:00 Boredom in the Digital Age 19:29 Defining Boredom 24:06 Boredom and Loneliness 27:39 The Future of Boredom

  In this episode of The Non-Obvious Show, host Rohit Bhargava engages with Michael Tennant, an empathy expert and founder of Curiosity Lab, discussing the importance of emotional awareness, vulnerability, and community in fostering deeper connections. Tennant shares his personal journey through loss and the development of his card game, Actually Curious, aimed at promoting empathy. The conversation explores the role of men's groups in emotional leadership, the impact of societal changes on empathy, and practical methods for cultivating empathy in oneself and others.   Takeaways Being willing to feel heart emotions is crucial. Empathy often requires vulnerability and self-reflection. Men's groups can provide a unique space for emotional growth. The game Actually Curious helps facilitate deeper conversations. Personal tragedy can lead to a greater understanding of empathy. Emotional intelligence is essential for building connections. Community plays a vital role in emotional healing. Learning empathy can be a structured process. It's important to meet people where they are emotionally. Understanding oneself is key to fostering empathy.     Chapters 00:00 The Power of Emotional Awareness 02:57 Empathy and Vulnerability: A Personal Journey 05:34 Men and Emotional Leadership 08:38 Building Deeper Connections Through Community 11:33 The Role of Conversation Games in Fostering Empathy 14:32 Navigating Empathy in a Changing World 17:29 Learning Empathy: Methods and Approaches 20:31 Creating a Million Empathy Experts 23:27 Understanding Yourself Through Empathy      

In this episode, Paco Underhill, a pioneer in consumer behavior and retail anthropology, shares insights from his extensive research on how consumers shop and make decisions. He discusses the evolution of retail spaces, the impact of gender on shopping habits, and the role of technology in shaping consumer experiences. Underhill emphasizes the importance of observational research over traditional focus groups and highlights the shift towards experiential retail. He also reflects on his personal journey towards healthier eating and the broader implications of consumer choices. Takeaways   Paco Underhill's insights on consumer behavior have shaped retail design globally. Observational research is more effective than focus groups in understanding consumer behavior. Gender dynamics play a significant role in shopping experiences and store design. The line between physical and digital shopping experiences is increasingly blurred. Retail experiences are becoming more important than traditional shopping methods. Understanding food choices is crucial for promoting healthier eating habits. The evolution of consumer preferences reflects broader societal changes. AI and technology are transforming how consumers shop and make decisions. Paco's personal journey towards healthier eating influenced his professional insights. Legacy is about encouraging future generations to embrace their identities. Chapters   00:00 The Evolution of Consumer Behavior 02:04 Accidental Journey into Consumer Anthropology 06:39 The Importance of Observational Research 09:49 Gender Dynamics in Shopping 17:51 The Impact of Technology on Shopping 22:52 The Shift Towards Retail Experiences 27:35 Understanding Food Choices and Shopping Habits 33:30 Legacy and Future Aspirations  

In this episode of the Non-Obvious Show, host Rohit Bhargava engages with Rafi Kohan, author of 'Trash Talk', to explore the cultural and psychological dimensions of trash talk in sports and beyond. They discuss the epidemic of mental weakness in society, the historical misunderstanding of trash talk, and its role as a tool for competition. Kohan emphasizes the importance of trust in trash talk, the need for teaching mental resilience, and the current cultural moment surrounding trash talk as a means of communication and competition. Takeaways   We are in an epidemic of mental weakness as a culture. Outrage has become cultural currency. Trash talk is a misunderstood form of competition. Self-awareness is foundational to mental toughness. Trust is essential for healthy trash talk. Trash talk can be both antisocial and pro-social behavior. Stress is not inherently bad; it prepares us for challenges. Trash talk raises the psychological stakes of competition. Teaching young people about trash talk can build resilience. The real competition is attention in today's culture. Chapters   00:00 The Epidemic of Mental Weakness 01:08 Understanding Trash Talk: A Cultural Exploration 03:47 The Misunderstanding of Trash Talk 07:42 The Psychology Behind Trash Talk 11:41 The Role of Trust in Trash Talk 15:42 Trash Talk as a Tool for Competition 20:00 Teaching Trash Talk: A Life Skill 23:56 The Cultural Moment of Trash Talk 27:50 Lessons from Trash Talk: Stress and Response

In this engaging conversation, AJ Jacobs, known for his unique lifestyle experiments, discusses his latest book, 'The Year of Living Constitutionally.' He shares insights on approaching disagreements as puzzles, the importance of learning through fun, and the impact of writing by hand on thought processes. Jacobs emphasizes the urgency of understanding the Constitution in today's political climate and advocates for bipartisan solutions to strengthen democracy. He also reflects on the role of humor in engaging readers and the potential of AI as a collaborative tool in creative endeavors.   Takeaways Approaching disagreements as puzzles fosters understanding. Lifestyle experiments can provide unique insights into complex topics. Learning can be fun and engaging, not dull. Writing by hand enhances memory and thought processes. Balancing curiosity with deadlines is essential for productivity. Identifying the 5% of ideas that are truly valuable is key. The Constitution's relevance is urgent in today's political landscape. Bipartisan solutions are necessary for a healthier democracy. Engaging with authority can amplify important ideas. Humility in exploration allows for deeper understanding.    Chapters 00:00 Approaching Disagreements as Puzzles 01:20 AJ Jacobs: The Human Guinea Pig 02:38 The Impact of Lifestyle Experiments 05:49 Learning Through Fun and Edutainment 08:34 The Power of Writing by Hand 10:58 Balancing Curiosity with Deadlines 12:37 The 5% Idea: Finding Worthwhile Concepts 15:51 The Urgency of Constitutional Understanding 20:23 Bipartisan Solutions for Democracy 24:02 Engaging with Authority on Constitutional Issues 26:11 Navigating Conversations with Disagreement 28:15 The Importance of Humility in Exploration 30:16 Using Humor to Engage Readers 31:33 AI as a Collaborative Tool 33:02 The Value of Bucket Lists 35:00 Reviving Democratic Traditions

In this conversation, Charles Duhigg discusses his book 'Supercommunicators' and explores the essential skills that make someone an effective communicator. He emphasizes the importance of understanding different communication styles, the role of empathy, and the significance of deep questions in fostering authentic connections. Duhigg also highlights the impact of nonverbal communication, the challenges of online interactions, and the potential of AI in communication. Ultimately, he encourages everyone to recognize that communication is a skill that can be developed and improved over time.   Takeaways  Charles Duhigg's books stem from personal questions and challenges. Super communicators are aware of the type of conversation they are having. Empathy is crucial in communication, often requiring matching the other person's emotional state. High centrality participants help groups connect better through neural entrainment. Asking deep questions fosters authentic connections and understanding. Laughter serves as a powerful tool for connection in conversations. Nonverbal communication plays a significant role in how we connect with others. Adapting communication styles for online interactions is essential for clarity. AI can mimic empathy but lacks genuine understanding in conversations. Building relationships through communication is vital for happiness and success.   Chapters 00:00 The Power of Communication 09:32 Understanding Super Communicators 19:42 The Role of Empathy in Communication 29:34 Navigating Online Communication 32:43 The Future of Communication and AI  

Does your job meet your needs and if not, what changes can you make to ensure it’s a more fulfilling aspect of your life? Dr. Michelle Penelope King is a globally recognized expert on inequality and organizational culture, and the bestselling author of The Fix: How to Overcome the Invisible Barriers that are Holding Women Back at Work and How Work Works: The Subtle Science of Getting Ahead Without Losing Yourself. From speaking across the world to being the head of UN Women’s Global Innovation Coalition for Change, and being the founder of a global consultancy called The Culture Practice, Michelle lends her expertise to advance gender equality and enhance global opportunity and achievement for women in each of her roles. In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Dr. Michelle Penelope King discuss topics inspired by How Work Works, including the importance of finding meaning and worth in your career, reflecting on the true diversity of your team, setting an achievable goal for excelling your position, and preparing for the next generation of workers, there are always ways we can grow in our work and create a more positive, lasting impact upon retirement.

What does status mean today? Executive producer, editor, and author Chuck Thompson explores this question and the evolution of status in his book The Status Revolution: The Improbable Story of How the Lowbrow Became the Highbrow. In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Chuck Thompson discuss topics inspired by the book, including the neuroscience behind dopamine boosts from luxury consumerism, the new-found elite status of dog rescuers, and the debate of claiming privilege versus status.

Is the future disabled? Ashley Shew, an associate professor of Science, Technology, and Society at Virginia Tech explores this question and writes for those who will become disabled in her book Against Technoableism: Rethinking Who Needs Improvement. In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Ashley Shew discuss topics inspired by the book, including re-thinking who needs improvement, the five main tropes for disability narratives, de-cyborgafying, and the growth of opportunity for disabled people in space.

Does everything happen for a reason or is it all just flukes? Brian Klaas, a professor of Global Politics at University College London, writer, podcaster, and researcher explores this question and why things happen in his book Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters. In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Brian Klaas discuss topics inspired by the book, including Kokura’s Luck, Chaos Theory, the paradox of 21st century life, and the non-obvious stuff that often sways history.

What will it take to transform the way the world views time? Richard Fisher, a senior journalist with BBC Global News, explores this question and shares ways to expand our minds into deeper time scales in his book The Long View: Why We Need to Transform How the World Sees Time. In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Richard Fisher discuss topics inspired by the book, including short termism in business and consumerism, the continuity time view, the impact of science fiction, and the encouragement of existential hope.

Would you know fraud when you see it or are you committing some fraud yourself? Kelly Richmond Pope is a nationally recognized expert and professor in forensic accounting who spent years interviewing fraud perpetrators before switching to learning from the victims. In her book, Fool Me Once: Scams, Stories, and Secrets from the Trillion-Dollar Fraud Industry, Kelly shares insight on the various ways fraud is committed and how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.    In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Kelly Richmond Pope discuss topics inspired by the book, including the different types of perpetrators, the acceptance of fraud in business, and the psychological damage of fraud on victims. Kelly also shares a red flag list to help you avoid becoming a victim, including not trusting people who still use HotMail. 

Could a workaround solve your problem? Paulo Savaget is an award-winning researcher and professor of engineering entrepreneurship who went on a three year journey to study how people invent workarounds to solve problems. In his book,The Four Workarounds: Strategies from the World's Scrappiest Organizations for Tackling Complex Problems, he shares his experience and findings in hopes of inspiring others to value workarounds and the possible big changes they enable.    In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Paulo Savaget discuss topics inspired by the book, including the four types of workarounds with case examples, the ethics of loopholes, and the innovations of smaller organizations that large corporations can learn from.   

Do you know how social media really works? Tobias Rose-Stockwell’s research on how tech amplifies discontent and disrupts democracy has inspired leading tech companies to adopt key interventions to reduce toxicity and polarization. In his book, Outrage Machine, he combines this research with personal anecdotes to create a guide to understanding how the internet has broken our brains and how we can fix it.    In this episode, Rohit Bhargava and Tobias Rose-Stockwell discuss topics inspired by the book, including why we become emotionally arrested by content, content that flirts with the extreme to gain engagement, and the process of changing minds when we live in a period of constant news and opinions.