How To Be Defiant When It Matters Most with Dr. Sunita Sah (#45)
Release Date: 07/29/2025
How To Have More Courage and Be More Bold with Ranjay Gulati (#59)
The Non-Obvious Show
This week's conversation explores the concept of courage, emphasizing that it exists within a context and is influenced by support systems. It also discusses how certain personality traits, often seen as inherent, can be strategic in helping individuals overcome fear. Takeaways Courage is contextual and influenced by external support. Personality traits attributed to courage may be strategic. Understanding the context can enhance our perception of courage. Support systems play a crucial role in fostering courage. Fear can be overcome through strategic personality traits. Courage is not...
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The Future of Storytelling (For Creators) with Charlie Melcher - PART 1 OF 2 (#58)
The Non-Obvious Show
This week's conversation explores the significant transformation in storytelling, highlighting a shift from traditional, passive media consumption to immersive, interactive experiences that empower audiences and foster social connections. Takeaways We are experiencing a renaissance in storytelling. There is a paradigm shift in how stories are created and consumed. Traditional media was flat and passive. The new media landscape is immersive and interactive. Audiences now have agency in their storytelling experiences. Stories are becoming more embodied and responsive. The shift is leading...
info_outline![The Future of Exploration [LIVE] - What Will Human Discovery Look Like In the Next Decade? (#57) show art](https://assets.libsyn.com/content/194768805?height=50&width=50)
The Future of Exploration [LIVE] - What Will Human Discovery Look Like In the Next Decade? (#57)
The Non-Obvious Show
This conversation delves into the future of exploration, focusing on the ocean and space, and the importance of self-discovery and equity in these fields. Layne Beachley, a legendary surfer, and Dawn McIntosh, a space systems engineer, discuss their experiences and insights on how exploration can be more responsible and inclusive. They emphasize the need to protect our oceans, the role of women in exploration, and the potential of virtual reality to enhance our understanding of the world. Takeaways Exploring the ocean demands self-reflection and awareness. Women's surfing embraces grace...
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Why the World Still Needs Human Experts with Dorie Clark (#56)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this conversation, Dorie Clark discusses the significance of human expertise in an era dominated by AI. She emphasizes the need for long-term thinking and strategic planning, while also addressing the challenges of perseverance versus quitting. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of expertise and personal branding, particularly in the context of generative AI's impact on media and content creation. Dorie shares insights on how individuals can maintain their relevance and distinctiveness in a rapidly changing world. Takeaways Expertise is crucial in a world increasingly...
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How Anyone Can Be Funnier with Anne Libera from Second City (#55)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this engaging conversation, Anne Libera, a comedy expert and director of Comedy Studies at The Second City, shares her insights on the art of comedy. She discusses the essence of humor, the science behind it, and how anyone can learn to be funnier. The conversation explores the changing landscape of comedy, the role of representation, and the importance of live performance in honing comedic skills. Libera emphasizes that comedy is not just about telling jokes but about connecting with audiences through recognition and shared experiences. Takeaways Anyone can use the tools of comedy...
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Why Successful Entrepreneurs Need To Give First with Brad Feld (#54)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this episode of The Non-Obvious Show, the conversation explores the themes of transactional versus non-transactional relationships, the philosophy of accessibility, and the importance of responsiveness in communication. The speakers discuss the evolving definitions of accessibility, personal responsibility in relationships, and the shift in work-life balance. They delve into the 'Give First' philosophy, emphasizing the need to engage non-transactionally and the benefits of being a giver in entrepreneurship. The discussion also touches on the realities of success in the entrepreneurial world...
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Finding Your Calling In Work and Life with Christopher Wong Michealson and Jennifer Tosti-Kharas (#53)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this episode, the conversation explores the concept of meaningful work, its definitions, and the impact of technology on the workplace. Philosophers and psychologists discuss the importance of understanding who benefits from our work, the pressures of finding a calling, and the cultural perspectives that shape our views on work. The discussion also touches on the implications of automation and the need for a societal perspective on meaningful work. Takeaways The more interaction with beneficiaries increases work meaningfulness. Non-obvious beneficiaries can enhance the perception of...
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Where Humans Will Live In The Future with Parag Khanna (#52)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this conversation, geopolitical expert Parag Khanna discusses the importance of physical mobility for economic and social advancement, the dynamics of global talent migration, and the evolving landscape of urban living in the context of AI and climate change. He emphasizes the need for young people to embrace mobility as a skill and explores various unconventional destinations that offer promising opportunities. Khanna also reflects on the current state of the United States in the global talent war and shares insights on how nations can realistically improve their circumstances. ...
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Why Every Business Needs A Good Strategic Enemy with Laura Ries (#51)
The Non-Obvious Show
In this episode, Laura Ries discusses the importance of differentiation in marketing, emphasizing the need for businesses to identify a strategic enemy in order to stand out in their sector. She reflects on her family's legacy in positioning, the balance between creativity and positioning, and the dangers of line extensions. Laura shares insights on successful brand strategies, the significance of simplicity, and the power of saying no to maintain brand integrity. The discussion also touches on partnerships, branding strategies, and a case study on Nvidia's success, culminating in thoughts on...
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Negotiating While Black (Or While Underestimated) with Damali Peterman (#50)
The Non-Obvious Show
Summary In this conversation, Damali Peterman discusses the nuances of negotiation, particularly from the perspective of being underestimated due to race or gender. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, identity, and everyday negotiation opportunities. The discussion also touches on the challenges of cookie-cutter negotiation tactics and the unique experiences of negotiating as a Black woman. Damali shares personal anecdotes and insights from her book, 'Negotiating While Black', highlighting the need for a more inclusive understanding of negotiation strategies. Takeaways...
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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