The Non-Obvious Show

Rohit Bhargava
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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. 12/23/2025

    Inside the Magical Subculture of Disney Adults with AJ Wolfe (#65)

    In this conversation, AJ Wolfe, author of 'Disney Adults', explores the unique subculture of Disney adults, discussing their motivations, the complexities of obsession, and the community dynamics within this group. The discussion delves into the societal perceptions of Disney adults, the role of Disney in creating loyalty and status among fans, and the various experiences available at Disney parks. Wolfe also shares insights on how to create memorable experiences at Disney and speculates on the future of the Disney brand.   Takeaways Disney adults choose to have Disney in their lives on purpose. The line between healthy indulgence and obsession varies for everyone. Many Disney adults are indifferent to external negativity. Internal community dynamics matter more than external opinions. Disney's marketing creates a sense of exclusivity and status. The Disney experience is designed to evoke strong memories. There are numerous behind-the-scenes experiences available at Disney. Disney's expansion includes new parks and ventures into sports. Not all Disney adults are park enthusiasts; there are various niches. Researching personal preferences is crucial for a great Disney experience.   Chapters 00:00 Understanding Disney Adults 05:24 The Complexities of Obsession 10:45 The Subculture of Disney Adults 13:57 Status and Community Dynamics 20:01 Disney's Manipulation and Loyalty 29:32 Creating Memorable Experiences 33:09 Disney's Future and Expansion

    42 min

  2. 12/16/2025

    How To Think Like a Futurist with Henry Coutinho-Mason (#64)

    In this episode, Rohit and Henry Coutinho Mason explore the mindset of a futurist, discussing the importance of understanding human behavior, the role of trends, and the impact of technology on future thinking. They share insights from their collaboration on the book 'The Future Normal' and emphasize the need for inclusivity in futurist practices. The conversation also highlights the significance of curiosity, storytelling, and the ability to embrace uncertainty in predicting future trends.   Takeaways There are certain things for every sector that will not change. The secret sauce is to look at innovations that meet human needs. Futurists often struggle with the label due to their diverse backgrounds. Inclusivity in futures thinking is crucial for broader engagement. Predictions should provoke new ways of thinking and action. Trends should be used to inspire and provoke discussions. AI can enhance the process of visualizing future ideas. Curiosity and the ability to be wrong are key skills for futurists. Organizations should focus on what doesn't change over time. Deep ethnographic research will become more valuable in the age of AI.   Chapters 00:00 Foundations of Future Thinking 01:19 The Reluctant Futurist Journey 05:53 Breaking Down Futurist Terminology 10:24 The Importance of Inclusivity in Futures Thinking 11:19 Reflections on Predictions and Trends 20:39 Using Trends Effectively 25:21 Innovating with AI in Futures Thinking 30:04 Curiosity and the Future Mindset

    36 min

  3. 12/09/2025

    Sikh Wisdom and the Art of Understanding People with Simran Jeet Singh (#63)

    In this conversation, Simran Jeet Singh discusses the importance of diverse storytelling, the challenges of navigating faith in public spaces, and the need for empathy and understanding across different communities. He reflects on his journey as an author and speaker, emphasizing the significance of vulnerability in storytelling and the complexities of representing a faith tradition. The discussion also touches on the balance between self-interest and service, the role of storytelling in disrupting bias, and the liberation found in letting go of control.   Takeaways   People often shut down when discussing inequality or racism. Personal storytelling can open up conversations about difficult topics. Sharing unique experiences can surprise and engage listeners. Listeners may recognize their own assumptions through storytelling. Engaging narratives invite personal growth and reflection. The speaker's story highlights the challenges of living with brown skin and a turban. Storytelling can create a bridge for understanding between different backgrounds. People are more receptive when they feel they are not being judged. Personal experiences can humanize abstract social issues. Growth can be a collective journey sparked by individual stories.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Simran Jeet Singh's Work 02:40 The Importance of Diverse Storytelling 06:12 Navigating Faith and Public Perception 08:54 Adapting Messages for Different Audiences 10:53 The Balance of Self-Interest and Service 13:59 Disrupting Bias Through Storytelling 17:26 Understanding Sikh Identity and Belonging 20:38 The Role of Vulnerability in Storytelling 23:06 Navigating the Burden of Representation 26:29 The Complexity of Evangelism 34:23 Finding Liberation in Letting Go of Control

    35 min

  4. 12/02/2025

    The Unlikely Rise of the Coach Brand and "Accessible Luxury" with Lew Frankfort (#62)

    In this episode, Lew Frankfort, former CEO of Coach, shares his journey of transforming Coach into a $5 billion brand. He discusses the concept of 'accessible luxury,' the importance of being an outsider in leadership, and the balance between magic and logic in business. Lew emphasizes the value of curiosity, purpose, and the greater good mindset in building a lasting brand.   Takeaways   Lew Frankfort was an unlikely choice to take over as CEO of Coach. Being an outsider might be the true key to leadership success. Coach opened their first store on Madison Avenue. Gen Z is value-driven and has a sense of purpose. Coach coined the term "accessible luxury" before going public. Coach wanted people to have belief in the brand. Coach built a culture of treating employees well. The greater good mindset requires belief and purpose.   Chapters   00:03:00 The Concept of Accessible Luxury 00:09:00 Leadership as an Outsider 00:15:00 Building the Coach Brand 00:21:00 Magic and Logic in Business 00:27:00 The Greater Good Mindset

    33 min

  5. 11/25/2025

    Why The Secret To Success Is To Stop Competing: Featuring Ruchika T. Malhotra (#61)

    In this episode Ruchika T. Malhotra, an expert on inclusive leadership, sits down with Rohit to discuss her new book "Uncompete: Rejecting Competition to Unlock Success." They explore the concept of "uncompete," challenging the traditional competitive mindset and advocating for collaboration and community as pathways to success. Ruchika shares personal stories and insights on how societal norms and cultural backgrounds influence our views on competition, and how we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.   Takeaways We're not hardwired to compete; collaboration is key to survival. The lone human surviving alone is a myth; community is essential. Uncompete is about being ambitious without sharp elbows. Cultural stereotypes, like the 'auntie' trope, shape our behavior. Systems often reward competition, but collaboration is more sustainable. Teaching kids a growth mindset fosters learning over competition. Personal stories can validate experiences beyond data and research. Men face a loneliness epidemic due to societal expectations. Inclusive language in writing can broaden audience reach. Success should be redefined to include community and collaboration.   Chapters 00:03:00 Cultural Influences on Competition 00:09:00 Teaching Kids a Growth Mindset 00:15:00 Inclusive Language and Audience Reach 00:21:00 Redefining Success with Community

    35 min

  6. 11/18/2025

    Will Superhuman Intelligence Be Good or Bad for Humanity? with Nick Bostrom (#60)

    In this conversation, Rohit and Nick delve into the complexities of AI, existential risks, and the duality of optimism and pessimism surrounding technological advancements. Bostrom shares insights on the importance of focusing on humanity's future, the predictability of technological developments, and the need for a balanced approach to innovation. They discuss the role of philosophy in understanding technology and the challenges of staying current in a rapidly evolving landscape. Bostrom emphasizes the significance of addressing overlooked areas and the potential benefits of a public global investment model for AI governance.   Takeaways Nick Bostrom identifies as a fretful optimist regarding AI. There is a duality in AI: significant risks and enormous potential. Many great minds are focused on less impactful areas like digital advertising. Bostrom aims to shine a light on overlooked innovations. The predictability of future technologies is often underestimated. Pandemics were not taken seriously before COVID-19, highlighting a need for preparedness. Technology has historically been a net positive for humanity. Philosophy, science, and technology intersect in meaningful ways. Bostrom is exploring the optimal timeline for AI development. Staying current in technology is akin to drinking from a fire hose.   Chapters 01:13 The Balance of Innovation and Caution 03:07 The Duality of AI: Optimism and Risks 06:32 Shining a Light on Overlooked Innovations 08:37 The Predictability of Future Technologies 12:16 Navigating the Landscape of AI Development 16:54 The Intersection of Technology and Philosophy 18:41 Prioritizing Important Questions in AI 22:53 Staying Current in a Rapidly Changing World 24:46 Counterintuitive Insights from Nick Bostrom

    30 min

  7. 11/11/2025

    How To Have More Courage and Be More Bold with Ranjay Gulati (#59)

    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 just an innate quality; it can be developed. The interplay between context and personality is vital. Recognizing the strategic nature of traits can empower individuals. Courage involves pushing past fear with the right support. Exploring the dynamics of courage can lead to personal growth.   Chapters 00:00 The Context of Courage 00:16 Strategic Traits in Overcoming Fear

    36 min
  8. The Future of Storytelling (For Creators) with Charlie Melcher - PART 1 OF 2 (#58)

    11/04/2025

    The Future of Storytelling (For Creators) with Charlie Melcher - PART 1 OF 2 (#58)

    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 to more social interactions around stories. Transformative experiences are at the core of new storytelling. The evolution of media is changing our relationship with stories. This change is significant for both creators and consumers.     Chapters 00:00 The Flourishing of Human Creativity 00:12 Finding Immersive Experiences 00:34 The Renaissance of Storytelling

    40 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Rohit Bhargava
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    The Non-Obvious Show