Curious Minds at Work

CM 313: Sunita Sah on the Power of No – Rebroadcast

In those moments when we want to disagree, why do we often stay silent? At those times when we want to opt out, why do we often just go along? A key reason is that it’s hard to defy. It’s hard to question the way something’s always been done. To challenge comments, behaviors, and systems. Yet it’s in those moments of defiance that we flex our values and craft an identity. That’s why I wanted to talk to Sunita Sah, organizational psychologist at Cornell University and author of the book, Defy: The Power of No in a World that Demands Yes. Her research reveals the importance of defiance and the skills we need to do it well. In her book – and in this conversation – she shares ways we can practice it and support others doing the same. Related Links Interview with Vanessa Patrick, author of The Power of Saying No Speak up at Thanksgiving. Your Health Demands It. America Thinks It’s a Country of Free Thinkers. But We’re Actually Compliant The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

CM 312: Daisy Fancourt on How Arts are Essential for Health

When it comes to our health and well-being, something’s missing from the checklist. Sure, we’ve got to get enough sleep, eat healthfully, exercise, and socialize. But one thing rarely makes the list – the arts. Singing. Dancing. Drawing. Visiting a museum. Going to a concert. Researchers are finding that these activities are not only entertaining, but they impact health and longevity in incredibly positive ways. One of the most important researchers behind this work is Daisy Fancourt, author of the book, Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives. She shares powerful research findings, along with steps we can take to inject more of the arts into our lives. Daisy introduces us to a new frontier for improved health and longevity – the arts. For too long overlooked and underestimated. Episode Links Is 2026 the ‘Seatbelt Moment’ for the Arts? Art Could Save Your Life! Five Creative Ways to Make 2026 Happier, Healthier and More Hopeful Interview with Julia Hotz, author of The Connection Cure The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

CM 311: Dan Coyle Asks, Are You Flourishing?

Relationships that thrive have characteristics that rarely appear by accident. Instead, their design is often intentional, even if the designers are unaware of the formula. That’s where Dan Coyle comes in. Curious about how some leaders craft strong relationships and successful outcomes, he spent time studying their methods. Dan shares what he learned in his latest book, Flourish: The Art of Building Meaning, Joy, and Fulfillment. One part inspiration and one part playbook, this is a resource for flourishing in all kinds of spaces. Episode Links Why Fulfilled People Make Time for Nothing at All 11 Rules for Betting Writing The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

CM 310: Kate Murphy on Why We Click

Most of us long to connect and, as social creatures, it makes sense that we not only want this but need human relationships to live a healthy life. With numbers on loneliness and polarization continuing to climb, I wanted to speak with someone who’s focused on the antidote, that is, connection. It led me to speak with Kate Murphy, author of the book, Why We Click: The Emerging Science of Interpersonal Synchrony. Kate’s done a deep dive on the importance of connection from multiple perspectives: individuals, teams, even pets. She shares behaviors that create connection, along with those that don’t. I’m seeing connection in a whole new way – thanks Kate! Episode Links You’re Not Listening: What You’re Missing and Why It Matters by Kate Murphy Interview with Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

CM 309: Toby Stuart on How Status Works

Decisions tax our brains. Whether it’s deciding which shows to watch or which products to buy, the choices are endless and can feel exhausting. That’s where status comes in. Researchers have learned that status is a mental short-cut we turn to when we’re feeling stuck. It’s an invisible force that guides decision-making and drives our choices. And it comes at a cost. Toby Stuart has written a book on status called Anointed: The Extraordinary Effects of Social Status in a Winner-Take-Most World. Given how important status is in our society and how invisible of a force it can be, I wanted to talk to him about what he’s learned and what role he thinks AI might play in dismantling it. Episode Links The Extraordinary Effects of Status on Society by Vikas Shah Where Success Really Comes From by Guy Kawasaki When Status Outranks Skills at Work by Freda L. Thomas The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.