The Non-Obvious Show

Rohit Bhargava

Rohit Bhargava is on a mission to inspire more non-obvious thinking in the world by asking some of the world's most perplexing questions.

  1. FA 6 DIES

    Negotiating While Black (Or While Underestimated) with Damali Peterman (#50)

    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 Negotiation is a skill that everyone can develop. Authenticity can be a superpower in negotiations. People often underestimate others based on race or gender. Everyday conversations are opportunities for negotiation. Cookie-cutter tactics may not work for everyone. Understanding your audience is crucial in negotiation. Negotiation is personal and should reflect your identity. The 'talk' given to Black children prepares them for real-world challenges. Building rapport can significantly impact negotiation outcomes. It's important to show up as your true self in negotiations.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Negotiation and Authenticity 02:51 The Roots of Negotiation Skills 08:19 Underestimation in Negotiation 13:03 Normalizing Negotiation in Everyday Life 15:08 Challenging Cookie-Cutter Negotiation Tactics 19:49 Negotiating as a Black Woman 24:14 The Talk: Preparing for Real-World Challenges 27:21 Lessons Learned from Writing the Book

    32 min
  2. 2 DE SET.

    How To Laugh at Tragedy Without Becoming A Victim with Tom Nash [LIVE] (#49)

    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

    29 min
  3. 12 D’AG.

    How Men Find Community and Build Empathy with Michael Tennant (#47)

    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

    28 min
  4. 5 D’AG.

    Insider Secrets On How We Shop and What We Eat with Paco Underhill (#46)

    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

    39 min
  5. 22 DE JUL.

    The Infuriating Upside of Trash Talk with Rafi Kohan (#44)

    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

    30 min
  6. 15 DE JUL.

    Using Bizarre Lifestyle Experiments To Save Democracy with A.J. Jacobs (#43)

    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

    38 min

Informació

Rohit Bhargava is on a mission to inspire more non-obvious thinking in the world by asking some of the world's most perplexing questions.

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