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392. Outraged with Kurt Gray
Tired of all the fighting over politics and morality? For this episode, we’re tackling moral outrage with Kurt Gray, a psychology professor and author of Outraged: Why We Fight about Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground. You’ll learn why we get so caught up in right vs. wrong, how to better understand what’s driving people’s fears and motivations, and how to connect—even when you don’t agree. Plus, you’ll get practical tips to manage your own outrage and have more empathetic conversations. Listen and Learn: The surprising key to bridging divides in relationships, even amidst deep moral disagreements How morality evolved to balance selfish instincts with the need for cooperation in groups How morality’s protective instincts can backfire, dividing us in groups and personal relationships Do cultural norms and deeper perceptions of harm shape our moral judgments and conflicts? Why does understanding the "other side" feel like betrayal—and what happens when both sides feel victimized? How moral typecasting shapes our views, seeing ourselves as victims and others as villains The complexity of human behavior and how even the most "evil" figures can have a backstory. How motivated reasoning can shape our political views and blur our judgment in conflict Embracing vulnerability and asking deeper questions to transform tough conversations Resources: ● Books: Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground Doppelganger by Naomi Klein The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein Article: Should an affair be disclosed? by Yael ● Website: https://www.kurtjgray.com/ ● Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtjgray/ ● Connect on X: https://x.com/kurtjgray ● Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kurtjgray ● Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kurtjgray/ About Kurt Gray Kurt Gray is a Professor in Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he directs the Deepest Beliefs Lab and the Center for the Science of Moral Understanding. And is the author of Outraged: Why We Fight About Morality and Politics and How to Find Common Ground. Related Episodes: 51. The Psychology of Political Division with Yael and Debbie 263. Relationships with Emotionally Immature People with Lindsay Gibson 276. Assertive Communication Skills with Randy Paterson 362. Adult Bullies and High Conflict People with Bill Eddy 371. Uniting Toward a Better Future with Diana McLain Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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391. Perfect Is Boring (And It Tastes Like Kale) with Jess Johnston
What if the very thing keeping you from deep, meaningful friendships is the fear of being your true, imperfect self? This week Michael sits down with Jess Johnston for a chat about authenticity, friendship, and overcoming the fear of rejection. They dive into themes for her book, Perfect Is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale): Finding Belonging and Purpose Without Changing Who You Are, which offers a refreshing take on embracing who you are while finding your place in the world. Together, they explore the ups and downs of adult friendships, including letting down your guard to create real bonds. Jess’s relatable stories and practical tips make it easy to see how consistency, courage, and even a little awkwardness can lead to meaningful relationships. If you’ve ever felt like perfection gets in the way of connection, this conversation is perfect for you. Listen and Learn: Jess’ off-grid childhood that sparked her love for writing and how those experiences shaped her perspective on connection The tension between performance and authenticity in your friendships and the courage to be rea What are the profound differences between belonging and fitting in? What does it really mean to be authentic? Awkward moments forge deeper connections—why embracing imperfection matters in your relationships and life The surprising power of intentionality and courage in building your adult friendships Why the fear of rejection is key to building meaningful friendships Resources: Book: Perfect Is Boring (and It Tastes Like Kale): Finding Belonging and Purpose Without Changing Who You Are: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593728246 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessmariejohnston/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessjohnstonwonderoak/ Website: https://wonderoak.com/ About Jess Johnston Jess Johnston lives in Southern California with her husband and four kids, who are the loves of her life. She is an Enneagram Seven and is enthusiastic about everything—but especially people, travel, and sauces. Jess’s writing makes you feel like you’re sitting cross-legged on her couch in your cozy pants while sharing hearts and drinking coffee. She is the co-author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants) and has been a top contributor to publications such as HuffPost, Scary Mommy, and Motherly. Related Episodes 385. Oliver Burkeman on Embracing Your Limitations 360. The Laws of Connection with David Robson 374. Developing and Deepening Connections with Adam Dorsay 271. Cultivating Friendships in Adulthood Featuring Adam Dorsay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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390. Raising Empowered Girls in a Sexist World with Jo-Ann Finkelstein
Raising strong, confident girls in today’s world isn’t always easy, and this episode is here to help. Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein chats with Dr. Emily Edlynn about her book, Sexism & Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World, and dives into how we can support girls as they face things like cultural pressures, objectification, and the subtle sexism that still lingers. They share real, practical tips on helping girls think critically, find their voices, and navigate the media they’re exposed to. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or just someone who wants to make a positive difference, this conversation is full of valuable insights you won’t want to miss. Listen and Learn: Exploring the inspiration behind Sexism and Sensibility How societal norms shape women's voices and learn how Jo-Ann’s book helps shift the narrative Progress and pitfalls: The dualities of feminism and girls' empowerment in modern culture How beauty culture, Eurocentric ideals, and self-objectification steal women’s power and potential A parental guide to empowering your kids to combat self-objectification The social dynamics that shape girls' voices and confidence, and why it's crucial for parents to intervene How can fathers empower their daughters to speak up while protecting them from societal biases? Resources: Book: Sexism & Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593581162 Website: https://www.joannfinkelstein.com/ Substack: https://joannfinkelstein.substack.com/ Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joannfinkelstein.phd Connect on X: https://x.com/finkeljo?lang=en Connect on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100086974203277/ Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannfinkelstein.phd/ About Jo-Ann Finkelstein: Jo-Ann Finkelstein, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and the author of Sexism & Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World. She was educated at Harvard University and Northwestern University and now maintains a private clinical practice. An expert blogger for Psychology Today, her work has been highlighted in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Harvard Business Review, Oprah Daily, and CNN, among others. Her writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Ms., Your Teen, and other publications. Dr. Finkelstein serves on the Advisory Board for Stop Sexual Assault in Schools. She lives in Chicago, Illinois. Related Episodes: 381. Reimagining Boyhood with Ruth Whippman 369. Good News About Adolescence with Ellen Galinsky 337. Puberty Is Awkward with Cara Natterson and Vanessa Kroll Bennett 332. Middle School Superpowers with Phyllis Fagell 317. Growing Up in Public with Devorah Heitner 290. Shared Sisterhood: Collective Action for Racial and Gender Equity at Work with Tina Opie and Beth Livingston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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389. Generational Differences in the Workplace with Michelle Quist Ryder
Ever feel like your workplace is a mix of different worlds, with each generation bringing its own style, perspective, and expectations? For our second episode of the year, Dr. Michelle Quist Ryder, CEO of the American Psychological Foundation, joins us to talk about how Baby Boomers to Gen Z can navigate work together. From remote work shifts to work-life balance expectations, you’ll come away with new knowledge on supporting each other across generations and creating healthier, more productive workplaces. If bridging generational gaps feels tricky, this episode offers practical tips to make it easier. Listen and Learn: Why generational gaps in values and tech create workplace challenges Understanding generational anxiety and why adapting workplace culture unlocks success for everyone Are return-to-office mandates sparking workplace crises, and how can companies adapt post-pandemic? How self-determination theory can unlock happier workplaces and fix toxic job cultures Can bridging generational differences in work values create healthier, more adaptable workplaces? Does turning your passion into a career kill your creativity, and how can you avoid that trap? Resources: ● Website: https://ampsychfdn.org/about/apf-team/ ● Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-quist-ryder ● Connect on X: https://twitter.com/mquistryder About Michelle Quist Ryder Dr. Michelle Quist Ryder is a social psychologist, research professional, and the CEO of the American Psychological Foundation, an organization that leverages the power of philanthropy to invest in research and advance psychological knowledge. Dr. Quist Ryder has an extensive background in human-centric organizational design, effective DEI practices, and leveraging psychology to solve critical societal issues. Related Episodes: 176. Fair Play with Eve Rodsky 206. Fair Play Part 2 with Eve Rodsky 274. Quarterlife 299. Leadership and the Changing Workplace with Chris Shipley 303. Both/And Thinking with Marianne Lewis 333. How Work Works with Michelle P. King 347. Job Changes & Career Pivots with Paula Brand 352.Twentysomethings with Meg Jay 338. ACT for Burnout 357. Is Your Work Worth It? How to Think About Meaningful Work with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and Christopher Wong Michaelson 374. Developing and Deepening Connections with Adam Dorsay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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388. Decision-Making in 2025 and Surprises!
Kick off the New Year with us in this special cohosted POTC episode! We've got a MAJOR announcement for 2025, and we're also chatting about the ups and downs of decision-making—all backed by psychology. We're also reflecting on our 2024 highlights, sharing what we're all hoping for in the new year, and talking about how community, flexibility, and staying true to your values play into making some of life’s tough choices. Plus, we’re giving you a sneak peek at what’s coming up on the podcast this year, including some awesome insights on relationship science and our personal goals for the future. Our exciting POTC New Year announcement Decision-making and understanding psychological flexibility How acceptance and commitment therapy can be applied when making decisions Making values-driven decisions and the importance of community and connection Cohost 2024 reflections and highlights About Emily Edlynn Emily (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric health psychology who works in private practice with children, teens, and adults. She has a BA in English from Smith College, a PhD in clinical psychology from Loyola University Chicago, and completed postgraduate training at Stanford and Children’s Hospital Orange County. Emily spent almost ten years working in children’s hospitals before pivoting to private practice, which allowed her to start a writing career. Emily has written her blog, The Art and Science of Mom, since 2017 and a parenting advice column for Parents.com since 2019. About Debbie Sorenson Debbie (she/her) is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Denver, Colorado with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Harvard University. She is author of the upcoming book ACT for Burnout: Recharge, Reconnect, and Transform Burnout with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and co-author of ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She loves living in Colorado, her home state, with her husband, two daughters, and dog. About Jill Stoddard Jill Stoddard is passionate about sharing science-backed ideas from psychology to help people thrive. She is a psychologist, writer, TEDx speaker, award-winning teacher, peer-reviewed ACT trainer, and co-host of the popular Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. Dr. Stoddard is the author of three books: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors: A Practitioner’s Guide to Experiential Exercises and Metaphors in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Be Mighty: A Woman’s Guide to Liberation from Anxiety, Worry, and Stress Using Mindfulness and Acceptance; and Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career. Her writing has also appeared in Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, and Mindful Return. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog. About Michael Herold Michael (he/him) is a confidence trainer and social skills coach, based in Vienna, Austria. He’s helping his clients overcome their social anxiety through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and fun exposure exercises. (Though the jury is still out on whether they’re mostly fun for him). He is also a certified therapeutic game master, utilizing the Dungeons&Dragons tabletop roleplaying game to train communication, assertiveness, and teamwork with young adults. Or actually, anyone ready to roll some dice and battle goblins in a supportive group where players want to level up (pun!) their social skills. Michael is the head coach of the L.A. based company The Art of Charm, running their confidence-building program “Unstoppable” as well as workshops on small talk, storytelling, vulnerability, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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