How To Be Defiant When It Matters Most with Dr. Sunita Sah (#45)
Release Date: 07/29/2025
How To Overcome the Daily Norms Holding You Back with Nilofer Merchant (#82)
The Non-Obvious Show
Nilofer Merchant discusses the hidden norms shaping our work environment, how to challenge them, and reframe our approach to work for greater fulfillment and innovation. Key Topics Invisible rules and norms in the workplace How to ask generative questions to unlock solutions The importance of truth and perspective in leadership Challenging systemic issues in organizations The role of norms in trust and engagement Personal stories revealing systemic flaws The concept of 'crusty truth' in business stories Reframing work to benefit all and solve meaningful problems Chapters...
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The Curious Optimism of People Who Choose Impossible Quests with Mark Medley (#81)
The Non-Obvious Show
Explore the fascinating world of individuals pursuing seemingly impossible goals, the long-term mindset, and the hope and resilience that drive human endeavors. Author Mark Medley shares insights from his book Live to See the Day and stories of explorers, scientists, and dreamers. Key Topics The fascination with pursuing impossible goals The importance of long-term thinking and patience Stories of explorers, scientists, and dreamers The role of hope and resilience in human endeavors Chapters 00:00 The Fascination with Impossible Goals 02:49 The Journey vs. The Destination 06:01...
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Having Wild Courage To Get What You Want with Jenny Wood (#80)
The Non-Obvious Show
Explore the unconventional traits of wild courage with Jenny Wood, a NYT best-selling author and founder of Google's Own Your Career program. Discover how embracing weirdness, selfishness, shamelessness, and other traits can propel your career and life forward. Key Takeaways Wild courage involves embracing traits society often discourages. In-person interactions can reveal authentic personality traits that virtual can't. Being shameless and bossy can be strategic in leadership if used appropriately. Cultural context influences how wild courage traits are perceived. Living with wild...
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Why We Talk To Cats and Make Everything "Humanish" with Justin Gregg (#79)
The Non-Obvious Show
Explore the fascinating world of anthropomorphism, its impact on human behavior, AI, marketing, and the future of human-like technology with dolphin cognition researcher Justin Gregg. Key Topics Anthropomorphism and its role in human behavior The influence of language and AI on human relationships The ethical and psychological implications of human-like technology Chapters 00:00 The Power of Anthropomorphism 02:04 Understanding Dolphin Cognition 04:56 The Nature of Anthropomorphism 07:50 Cultural Perspectives on Anthropomorphism 10:30 AI and Human-Like...
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Why Belief Is the Biggest Reason For Success or Failure with Nir Eyal (#78)
The Non-Obvious Show
Explore the fascinating insights into human perception, beliefs, and the power of persistence with Nir Eyal, author of Beyond Belief. Discover how our brain's predictive processing shapes reality, how beliefs influence behavior, and how anyone can unlock hidden potential. Key Topics The brain's predictive processing and perception of reality How beliefs shape behavior and perception The role of persistence and how to cultivate it Self-hypnosis and unlocking hidden abilities The impact of beliefs on motivation and success Chapters 00:00 The Illusion of Reality...
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How To Manage Your Boss To Win At Work with Melody Wilding (#77)
The Non-Obvious Show
Melody Wilding, a human behavior expert and author, shares insights on managing up, understanding human psychology in the workplace, and navigating complex workplace dynamics. This episode explores practical strategies for influence, communication, and career growth. Key Topics Managing up and influence strategies Understanding human psychology in the workplace The role of sensitivity and emotional intelligence in leadership Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Managing Up and Workplace Psychology 02:13 Melody Wilding's Background: From Emotions Research to Human Behavior...
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The Hidden Secrets of How Stuff Gets Made with Tim Minshall (#76)
The Non-Obvious Show
Explore the fascinating world of manufacturing with Tim Minchel, author of 'How Things Are Made'. Discover how manufacturing shapes our lives, the importance of factory visits, and the future role of humans in an automated world. Key topics The importance of manufacturing in community and economy How manufacturing systems are complex and fragile The role of factory visits in understanding manufacturing Innovation and iterative design in manufacturing Environmental impact and sustainable practices in manufacturing The future role of humans in automated manufacturing Personalized...
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How Under Armour Is Rediscovering Their Identity With Kevin Plank (#75)
The Non-Obvious Show
Kevin Plank, founder of Under Armour, shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a global sports apparel brand. He discusses leadership lessons, brand identity, innovation, and the importance of resilience and purpose. Key Topics Kevin Plank's entrepreneurial journey Brand identity and storytelling Innovation in sports apparel Leadership and team building Resilience and overcoming challenges Chapters 00:00 The Power of Focus and Intensity 01:54 Kevin Plank's Journey with Under Armour 08:18 Rebuilding Under Armour's Identity 10:17 The Hustle of Entrepreneurship 12:48 The...
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Why Your Ambition Is Working Against You with Amina AlTai (#74)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this conversation, Amina AlTai discusses her book 'The Ambition Trap,' exploring the duality of ambition as both a natural drive and a potential source of pain. She introduces the concepts of purposeful and painful ambition, emphasizing the importance of awareness in navigating these dynamics. AlTai also delves into the intersection of identity and ambition, particularly for historically excluded groups, and highlights the significance of core wounds in shaping our ambitions. The discussion touches on generational perspectives on ambition, the role of culture, and practical steps for...
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The Difference Between Mentors and Sponsors with Dr. Rosalind Chow (#73)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this episode, Dr. Rosalind Chow discusses the crucial differences between mentorship and sponsorship, how trust and power dynamics influence professional relationships, and practical ways to become a sponsor regardless of your position. She shares insights from her research and book, 'The Doors You Can Open,' offering actionable advice for career growth and networking. Key Topics Difference between mentorship and sponsorship How trust influences sponsorship Power dynamics in professional relationships Identify opportunities to sponsor others in your network Reframe networking as...
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In this episode of The Non-Obvious Show, Dr. Sunita Shah discusses the concept of defiance, challenging the negative perceptions surrounding it. She emphasizes the importance of understanding our values and how they can empower us to act defiantly in various situations. Through personal anecdotes and research, Dr. Shah illustrates how defiance can be a positive force for change, both personally and socially. The conversation explores the dynamics of compliance, the role of values, and the potential ripple effect of individual acts of defiance in professional contexts.
Takeaways
Defiance can be a quiet statement of values.
Compliance often leads to negative consequences for individuals.
Understanding our values is crucial for practicing defiance.
Defiance is not inherently negative; it can drive positive change.
Tension in a situation can signal the need for defiance.
Defiance is a skill that can be developed and practiced.
The costs of compliance can outweigh the risks of defiance.
Defiance can inspire others and create movements.
Preparation is key to being able to act defiantly when needed.
Living in alignment with one's values leads to greater happiness.
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Defiance
08:41 Understanding Compliance and Defiance
17:48 The Role of Values in Defiance
26:48 Defiance in Professional Contexts
35:24 The Ripple Effect of Defiance