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(0:00) Intro(1:37) About the podcast sponsor: The American College of Governance Counsel(2:24) Start of interview(3:10) Alex's origin story(5:56) His advisory boards and other board positions. On the importance of the academic practitioner nexus.(7:02) About his book May Contain Lies (2024)(10:07) About confirmation bias, relevant to corporate directors.(11:48) About black and white thinking (binary thinking).(14:44) Dissent in the boardroom. How in the UK directors don't have "skin the game" (no equity compensation).(21:59) On his "ladder of misinference": helps understand how misinformation can be perpetuated by misinterpreting the steps in a logical argument. The four key stages are: a statement is not fact, a fact is not data, data is not evidence, and evidence is not proof.(27:27) On his book "Grow the Pie" and the shareholder and stakeholder debate.(30:13) On the pushback against ESG in the US ("pushback is better than backlash"). His paper The End of ESG (2023)(32:53) On the use and misuse of board diversity data. His paper: (Diversity) Equity and Inclusion (2023)(40:34) On AI and the boardroom(44:15) On Public Benefit Corporations (PBCs). (49:23) The value of scientific research for boards(50:27) Books that has greatly influenced his life:The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey (1989)The Little Prince by Antoine to Saint-Exupéry (1943)The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (1988)(53:12) His mentors:His dadWilliam Chalmers (CFO at Lloyds Banking Group, ex boss at Morgan Stanley)Learning from every situation(54:25) Quotes that he thinks of often or lives his life by: "You can do everything you want to and be everything you want to be but not all at once" (Laurie Hodrick). "You don't know how many times you'll get to play in your life so if you do get the chance you've got to rock it big time" (Tony Mortimer, East 17)(56:53) An unusual habit or an absurd thing that he loves: exercising daily.(59:06) The living person he most admires: Stuart Pearce.Alex Edmans is a Professor at London Business School, Fellow of the British Academy; and Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. You can follow Evan on social media at:X: @evanepsteinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/epsteinevan/ Substack: https://evanepstein.substack.com/__To support this podcast you can join as a subscriber of the Boardroom Governance Newsletter at https://evanepstein.substack.com/__Music/Soundtrack (found via Free Music Archive): Seeing The Future by Dexter Britain is licensed under a Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License
InvestOrama - Separate Investment Facts from Financial Fiction
One of my previous guest (Alex Edmans) told me that this "Start with Why" (Simon Sinek) is bullshit, so I didn't start with that... but I wanted to explain what I'm doing here. What's my purpose? What's unique about my approach? And what you will find on this channel?Subscribe to the newsletter: https://investorama.substack.com/Prefer audio only? https://pod.link/1511595070Need help to launch or grow your brand's podcast or YouTube channel: https://orama.tv/
EP 382 - April's quiz round up sees Alex Edmans, Anand Menon and Psyfer play the game to see if they think Brexit, Labour Government, GDPR, Crowdfunding, Lobbying Client Lunches and are business or just complete tosh!*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Is it Business or Bullsh*t?00:45 Brexit01:37 Labour Government03:18 GDPR04:16 Crowdfunding05:25 Lobbying07:48 Client Lunchesbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
EP 381 - This week we talk to Alex Edmans about how you make decisions in a world full of misinformation. Alex is a Professor of Finance who has written and spoken extensively about subjects such as ESG (why those three letters don't belong together) and why cognitive, rather than demographic diversity is a better indicator of business success.He's managed to do all that without getting cancelled, because his findings and talking points are guided by objective data rather than opinion. Though we do discuss how data itself can be misleading.So if you want to know why too much diversity can be a bad thing, then dive in.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Alex Edmans01:15 Synopsis02:07 Meet Alex - Professor of Finance03:54 Challenges in Assessing Cognitive Diversity08:08 The Role of Academics in Real-World Impact18:00 Confirmation Bias and Its Impact on Decision Making30:36 The Nuances of Diversity and Inclusion35:22 The Evolution and Challenges of ESG Reporting39:20 The Burden of Reporting40:31 The Problem with Standardised Metrics42:16 Regulation vs. Market Demand43:21 SMEs and Purpose-Driven Business44:52 The Complexity of ESG48:29 Governance: A Historical Accident01:11:40 The Importance of Financial Literacy01:13:22 Quickfire - Get to Know Alex01:17:50 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
The Sustainable Edge podcast returns with a bite-sized episode that cuts through the noise on impact investing. Host Joachim Nahem sits down with renowned finance professor Alex Edmans to explore what it really means to invest for impact—and the caveats leaders and investors need to keep in mind. This 9-minute listen is packed with bold perspectives and practical reflections for anyone navigating the evolving ESG and sustainability space. Key highlights: Why some impact investing claims are overstated—and how to spot it The double-edged sword of ESG: long-term value vs. marketing hype Alex's bold prediction: the end of ESG as a term—and why that might be a good thing
In a world where misinformation spreads at lightning speed, how can leaders protect themselves – and their organizations – from making crucial decisions based on flawed thinking?In this episode of my “Leadership Biz Cafe” podcast, I've invited Dr. Alex Edmans to join me to help tackle this timely and critical question facing leaders today.Alex is a Professor of Finance at London Business School. He has a PhD from MIT as a Fulbright Scholar, and was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley.Alex has spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, testified in the UK Parliament, and given 3 TED talks, including “What to Trust in a Post-Truth World”, which has been viewed over two million times.Alex joins me to talk about his latest book, “May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It”.Over the course of this episode, Alex and I discuss:Why confirmation bias affects everyone (even those who think they're immune)How black-and-white thinking limits our understanding of complex issuesThe crucial differences between statements, facts, data, evidence, and proofPractical strategies to strengthen critical thinking at both individual and organizational levelsThis is both a fascinating and challenging conversation, and one that will help you strengthen your critical thinking skills that you'll need to help your organization navigate this age of misinformation.Noteworthy links:Buy Alex Edman's book “May Contain Lies” on AmazonLearn more about Alex's work: alexedmans.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you want your company to scale, here's one question you need to ask yourself: Are you growing your people as fast as you're growing your revenue? Too many leaders obsess over business expansion but ignore the foundation that makes it possible—PEOPLE. In this episode of the Happiness Squad Podcast, Ashish Kothari and Ryan Heckman remind us that when you invest in your people's growth, your business follows. Ryan reveals the leadership shift that can turn any stagnant company into an unstoppable force.Ryan Heckman is a seasoned private equity investor with over 25 years of experience, currently serving as co-founder, managing partner, and CEO at Rallyday Partners, a lower middle market investment firm. He also co-founded the Colorado Impact Fund, a Denver-based social impact fund. Previously, Ryan was the CEO and Chairman of EVP Eyecare and co-founded Excellere Partners, a private equity firm managing approximately $1.3 billion in capital. A two-time Olympian in skiing, he is also the Chairman of CiviCO, a founding board member of Endeavor Global/Colorado, and a Trustee at the University of Denver.Things you will learn in this episode:• Why growing your people is the fastest way to grow your business• How leadership is not about control—it's about empowerment• Why culture should get better as a company grows—not worse• Why leaders must be coaches, not just managers• How trust and psychological safety drive performanceThis episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about leadership and business growth. Don't miss it!Resources:✅• Rallyday Partners: http://www.rallydaypartners.com/ • Colorado Impact Fund: http://www.coloradoimpactfund.com/ • CiviCO: https://www.livecivico.org/ • Intrinsic Value (Wall Street Journal Column by Roger Lowenstein) https://rogerlowenstein.com/ • First Biography of Warren Buffett – By Roger Lowenstein: https://hbr.org/1996/01/what-i-learned-from-warren-buffett • Research from the Michigan Ross Center for Positive Organizational Scholarship: https://positiveorgs.bus.umich.edu/an-introduction/ • Clay Christensen's Work on Management as a Noble Profession: https://hbr.org/2020/01/clayton-christensen-the-gentle-giant-of-innovation • Jan-Emmanuel De Neve & Sonja Lyubomirsky (Oxford Research on Workplace Well-Being): https://d341ezm4iqaae0.cloudfront.net/ews/20220817145319/Work-Wellbeing-2022-Insights-Report-.pdf Books:✅• The Heart of Business by Hubert Joly: https://a.co/d/eVeJrY1 • Grow the Pie by Alex Edmans: https://alexedmans.com/books/ • Hardwired for Happiness by Ashish Kothari:
Alex Edmans is a professor of Finance, non-executive director, author, and TED speaker. He is regularly interviewed and writes for WSJ, Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, ITV, NPR, Reuters, Sky News, and Sky Sports. He was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. In this episode we talk to Alex about his new book “May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About. He is also a co-author of the classic text book, “Principles of Corporate Finance” and top business book (his first book) Grow the Pie, How Great Companies Deliver both purpose and Profit. His Ted Talk on what to trust in a post truth world has alone been viewed nearly 2m time. So many thought-provoking takeaways for anyone in FP&A! Leaving Morgan Stanley to become a professor of finance Why I give Ted Talks rather than just publishing research How CFOs and FP&A leaders can think about purpose Is ESG a tick-box exercise for finance? How FP&A and finance leaders can check their biases How you can control your addiction to bias Silicon Valley Bank and why financial models were affected by bias Follow Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aedmans/ Links to Alex's new book: May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about TED: What to trust in a “post-truth” world
Business books are everywhere, offering seemingly simple solutions to complex problems—but are they truly helpful? In this episode, Alex Edmans explores the biases that make us fall for oversimplified advice and why many popular business books fail to deliver. You'll learn: How black-and-white thinking fuels the success of books like Dr. Atkins' Diet Revolution and Start With Why. Why confirmation bias leads us to believe unproven claims (feat. Simon Sinek's “Why” theory). The dangers of ignoring nuance, such as in Angela Duckworth's Grit and Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule. Real-world examples of flawed reasoning, from the London Marathon tragedy to corporate missteps. How to critically evaluate the advice offered in bestsellers and avoid falling for universal “truths.” ---- Download the Reading List: https://nudge.kit.com/readinglist Sign up to my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ Alex's book May Contain Lies: https://maycontainlies.com/ ---- Sources: Edmans, A. (2024). May contain lies: How stories, statistics, and studies exploit our biases—and what we can do about it. University of California Press. Atkins, R. C. (1972). Dr. Atkins' diet revolution: The high calorie way to stay thin forever. New York: Bantam Books. Seidelmann, Sara B. et al. (2018): ‘Dietary carbohydrate intake and mortality: a prospective cohort study and meta-analysis', Lancet Public Health 3, E419–E428 DeLosh, Edward L., Jerome R. Busemeyer and Mark A. McDaniel (1997): ‘Extrapolation: the sine qua non for abstraction in function learning', Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition 23, 968–86. Fisher, Matthew and Frank Kiel (2018): ‘The binary bias: a systematic distortion in the integration of information'. Psychological Science 29, 1846–58 Sinek, S. (2009). Start with why: How great leaders inspire everyone to take action. Portfolio. Gladwell, M. (2008). Outliers: The story of success. Little, Brown and Company. Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance. Scribner.
I explore the truth behind the famous 10,000-hour rule, popularized by Malcolm Gladwell. Today, Prof Alex Edmans uncovers why the rule persists despite its flaws and dives into the psychological biases that make misinformation so believable. You'll learn: Why the 10,000-hour rule isn't as universal as it seems (feat. insights from Alex Edmans). How confirmation bias shapes beliefs—from the Atkins diet to Deepwater Horizon. The dangers of narrative fallacy in explaining success (feat. 1975 Barry Staw study). Real-world examples of misinformation, from Belle Gibson's cancer cure claims to Volkswagen's diesel scandal. A simple mental trick to fight confirmation bias and save yourself from misleading ideas. ---- Download the Reading List: https://nudge.kit.com/readinglist Sign up to my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ Alex's book May Contain Lies: https://maycontainlies.com/ ---- Sources: Gladwell, M. (2008). Outliers: The story of success. Little, Brown, and Company. Edmans, A. (2024). May contain lies: How stories, statistics, and studies exploit our biases—and what we can do about it. University of California Press. Kaplan, Jonas T., Sarah I. Gimbel and Sam Harris (2016): ‘Neural correlates of maintaining one's political beliefs in the face of counterevidence', Scientific Reports 6, 39589. Wong, Nathan Colin (2015): ‘The 10,000-hour rule', Canadian Urological Journal 9, 299. Staw, Barry M. (1975): ‘Attribution of the “causes” of performance: a general alternative interpretation of cross-sectional research on organizations', Organizational Behavior and Human Performance 13, 414–32.
InvestOrama - Separate Investment Facts from Financial Fiction
Welcome to the podcast that's now called Investology. This new name reflects the changes that I felet were needed for 2025 onwards. A new year that feels like a new era in the investment world based on the news this January probably not the era we want, but we can learn to adapt and thrive. Many investment podcasts, that talk about macro, micro or predictions. This is not one of them. Here we think about investment management and what goes on behind the curtain of financial markets. With my guests, we will talk about tech and innovation but also the history, the narratives, the principles. And there's no better guest to start this year with than Alex Edmans, a professor of finance author and expert in how we use and misuse data and evidence. We discuss his excellent book May contain lies in the previous episode. Alex is also a sustainability specialist and author of grow the pie How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit and also wrote a recent paper called The End of ESG and they will be the subject of this conversation that helped me think about sustainable investind and I hope it helps you too. I wish you a great year in your personal, professional and your invetsing life! ABSTRACT from The End of ESG by Alex Edmans ESG is both extremely important and nothing special. It's extremely important because it's critical to long-term value, and so any academic or practitioner should take it seriously, not just those with “ESG” in their research interests or job title. Thus, ESG doesn't need a specialized term, as that implies it's niche – considering long-term factors isn't ESG investing; it's investing. It's nothing special since it's no better or worse than other intangible assets that create long-term financial and social returns, such as management quality, corporate culture, and innovative capability. Companies shouldn't be praised more for improving their ESG performance than these other intangibles; investor engagement on ESG factors shouldn't be put on a pedestal compared to engagement on other value drivers. We want great companies, not just companies that are great at ESG. ABOUT ALEX EDMANS Alex's website: https://alexedmans.com/ Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. His TED talk ‘What to Trust in a Post-Truth World' has been viewed 2 million times and he has spoken at Davos and in the UK House of Commons. In 2013 he was awarded tenure at The Wharton School and in 2021 he was named MBA Professor of the Year by Poets and Quants. Edmans writes regularly for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and Harvard Business Review. His first book, Grow the Pie, was a Financial Times Book of the Year. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. USEFUL LINKS
From curing scurvy to shaping billion-dollar business strategies, this is the story of the most important experiment in science and its profound impact on our world. ---- Sign up to my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ ---- Inspired by the insights and storytelling of May Contain Lies How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It, authored by Alex Edmans.
Leaders, here's the wake-up call: More than half of your workforce is burned out. Ignoring it won't make it go away, and throwing tools like mindfulness apps at the problem won't fix it either. The solution lies in redesigning how work happens.In this episode of the HAPPINESS SQUAD Podcast, Ashish Kothari and Jen Fisher, Former Human Sustainability Leader and Chief Well-being Officer at Deloitte, uncover why workplace well-being is directly tied to your organization's success and how you can make it a cornerstone of your strategy.Jen Fisher is a leading expert in workplace wellbeing and human sustainability, known for her groundbreaking role as Deloitte US's first Chief Wellbeing Officer. She is the bestselling co-author of Work Better Together and host of The WorkWell Podcast. Her work has been featured in major outlets such as Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and CNN, making her a sought-after thought leader and speaker in the field.Things you will learn in this episode:• Why well-being is a strategic imperative• The real causes of burnout and how to address them• Building a culture of permission and psychological safety• The ROI of investing in well-being at work• Non-negotiables for thriving leadersResources: ✅• Jen Fisher on Substack: https://jenfisher.substack.com/• Work by Dr. Alex Edmans: https://alexedmans.com/correlation/ • McKinsey: Addressing Employee Burnout: https://www.mckinsey.com/mhi/our-insights/addressing-employee-burnout-are-you-solving-the-right-problem Books: ✅• Work Better Together book co-authored by Jen Fisher: https://a.co/d/1imvQxy • Hardwired for Happiness by Ashish Kothari: https://a.co/d/3SixHKF
InvestOrama - Separate Investment Facts from Financial Fiction
How stories, statistics and studies exploit our biases as investors — and what we can do about it. Tune in for an enlightening discussion with Alex Edmans, on enhancing your critical thinking skills applied to investing. Alex's website: https://maycontainlies.com/ Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. His TED talk ‘What to Trust in a Post-Truth World' has been viewed 2 million times and he has spoken at Davos and in the UK House of Commons. In 2013 he was awarded tenure at The Wharton School and in 2021 he was named MBA Professor of the Year by Poets and Quants. Edmans writes regularly for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times and Harvard Business Review. His first book, Grow the Pie, was a Financial Times Book of the Year. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. GO FURTHER
In his book “May Contain Lies: How stories, statistics and studies exploit our biases - and what we can do about it”, Dr Alex Edmans urges us to pause and reflect before we trust any article or a fact stated in a book or in a newspaper. It doesn't matter who wrote it. And it isn't such a tedious process to work it out. In this podcast Alex shares his views on confirmation bias, what is wrong with our interpretation of the 10,000 hour rule (among others), how social media is playing an outsized role in disseminating information, how JFK possibly averted the third world war during the Cuban missile crisis and why some leaders encourage their teams to challenge authority and are better off for it.
How does a company remain resilient and successful during challenging times? How can leaders steer their companies to thrive, not just survive, during times of uncertainty and change? Complex strategies or advanced technologies can help, but there's something more impactful that can lead any company to long-term gains. According to Chris Cright, Founder, CEO and Chair of Liberty Energy, it's about prioritizing your people.Chris Wright is a tech nerd turned entrepreneur. With a deep-rooted passion for energy in all its forms, he has journeyed through various sectors, from fusion, solar, and geothermal, to his current focus on oil and gas and next-generation geothermal. His guiding principle is clear: the source of energy matters less than its ability to be secure, reliable, affordable, and, most importantly, its capacity to better human lives. Chris' commitment is not just to energy itself, but to unlocking its potential to enrich communities worldwide.In this episode of the HAPPINESS SQUAD Podcast, Chris, shares with us the power of a people-first culture and how to lead one. Join us as we uncover how Chris' passion for energy and commitment to improving lives translates into a leadership style that puts people at the forefront.Episode highlights:• The power of meaningful relationships• How vulnerability creates connections• The importance of a People-first Business Strategy• How to Lead a People-first cultureReady to learn from a master? Tune in to hear Chris Wright talk about building a thriving people-first culture. Listen to the episode here! Resources:• Liberty Energy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LibertyFrac• Liberty Energy on linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyenergy/ • Bettering Human Lives Report - https://www.libertyenergy.com/betteringhumanlivesv2/ Books:• Hardwired for Happiness by Ashish Kothari• Grow the Pie by Alex Edmans
Is Unconscious Bias Holding You Back from GREAT Leadership Decisions? Discover how your hidden biases might be impacting your decision-making and leadership style. In this insightful talk with renowned expert Alex Edmans, you'll learn: • The hidden dangers of unconscious bias: Understand how biases can cloud judgment and lead to suboptimal decisions. • The power of diversity of thought: Learn how to foster a culture of diverse perspectives and challenge the status quo. • The importance of trust and empathy: Explore the impact of trust on organizational performance and employee engagement. • Practical strategies to overcome bias: Discover actionable tips to mitigate bias and make more informed decisions. Don't let unconscious bias hinder your leadership journey. Watch this video to unlock your full potential as a leader. Ready to unlock the true potential of your leadership? Schedule a free, one-on-one consultation today. https://www.elitehighperformance.com/... Alex Edmans's Bio https://www.london.edu/faculty-and-re... Find Susan Hobson, Founder & CEO of Elite High Performance, Top Leadership Coach & Author, at the following links: • https://www.elitehighperformance.com/... • / jumpstartliving • / susanlhobson / susanlhobson
More than 50% of employees don't feel heard at work. This disconnect can cost companies more than just morale—it's affecting productivity, retention, and ultimately, profits. If your company is still relying on surveys and feedback forms as your main tools for "listening" to employees, it might be time to rethink your approach. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Ashish Kothari and Dr. Angela Jackson, Founder of Future Forward Strategies and Author, dig into the Win-Win Workplace Framework, a paradigm-shifting strategy that uses employee voices to drive organizational success.Dr. Angela Jackson is a professor at Harvard University and an expert in organizational development and employee engagement, with a focus on creating thriving workplaces where employees drive bottom-line success. With over five years of research and interviews with 1,200 companies, Dr. Jackson has developed the Win-Win Workplace Framework, which helps organizations operationalize employee voice and reimagine workplace culture. She is also the author of the upcoming book The Win-Win Workplace: How Thriving Employees Drive Bottom Line Success.If you're serious about lowering turnover and creating a thriving workplace, don't miss this episode!Things you will learn in this episode:• How investing in employees is generating more revenue• The Win-Win Workplace Framework and its nine practices• The importance of your employees' voice• Changing the traditional parent-child dynamic in the workplace to a peer-to-peer relationship• Barriers to creating a win-win workplaceResources: ✅• Dr. Angela Jackson website: https://www.drangelajackson.com/ • Future Forward Strategies: https://www.futureforwardstrategies.com/about#:~:text=Our%20Founder%20and%20CEO,initiatives%20that%20create%20career%20pathways.• Also mentioned in this episode:• What Got You Here Won't Get You There book by Marshall Goldsmith https://www.amazon.com/What-Got-Here-Wont-There/dp/1401301304 • A Layman's Guide to Separating Causation from Correlation … and Noticing When Claims of Causality are Invalid https://alexedmans.com/correlation/ • Alex Edmans episode at HAPPINESS SQUAD: https://happinesssquad.com/captivate-podcast/the-power-of-purpose-driven-organizations-with-alex-edmans/ • Positively Making Organizations and the World Better by Kim Cameron https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1548051821997414?icid=int.sj-abstract.similar-articles.8 Books:✅• The Win-Win Workplace: How Thriving Employees Drive Bottom-Line Success https://www.amazon.com/Win-Win-Workplace-Thriving-Employees-Bottom-Line/dp/B0D6V6B4TN • Hardwired for Happiness: 9 Proven Practices to Overcome Stress and Live Your Best Life
SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring the shocking truth about how the media's shock and awes keep us on high alert but in actuality, weaken our instincts. Have you ever heard of the tale of Henny Penny? It's a classic Scandinavian folktale where a little chick named Henny Penny gets hit on the head by a falling acorn and panics, believing that the sky itself is falling. Determined to warn the king, Henny Penny sets off on a journey, gathering other animals along the way who are also swept up in the hysteria. However, they eventually meet a clever fox who pretends to join their mission but instead lures them to its den—where it ends up eating them all. And that's the abrupt, cautionary end of their story! OUCH. Ever feel like you're bombarded with so much shocking news that it's hard to know what's an actual emergency? Kind of like poor Henny Penny, who thought the sky was falling over a little acorn! In this episode, we're diving into what happens when the media's constant “shock and awe” leaves us in a state of constant worry, always braced for disaster. We'll explore how this can wear us down and dull our true instincts, and most importantly, we'll uncover ways to take back our peace, sharpen our intuition, and add a little calm to our daily lives. Let's get grounded and learn to spot the real acorns from the falling skies—no foxes allowed! I could have started by pandering today's headlines but to be honest, I didn't want to throw any more fuel on the inferno. I also know it's easy to look to a “simpler” past by saying, “Back in my day we had three channels….and you had to get up to turn them.” But that kind of angle isn't going to grab the youth of today. So let's just consult the hard-core facts. I wanted to look at a thirty-year span so we could see how our consumption in America has changed over the past three decades. On the Cleveland Clinic's website, I found information about the biology of Always on Alert: Causes and Examples of Hypervigilance Carolyn L Todd gives us some Stressful News Cycle Tips: 13 Ways to Protect Your Mental Health found on Self Over at Big Think's YouTube channel, Alex Edmans helps you Improve your critical thinking skills in just 6 minutes When we get used to constant alarming headlines and alerts, it can really mess with our ability to spot real danger when it actually matters. Here's how: Slower Response in Emergencies: When we're bombarded with “urgent” information all the time, we start tuning it out—even if it's important. It's like hearing a fire alarm but thinking, “Eh, probably another drill.” This can lead us to hesitate or ignore real emergencies, which can be risky in critical situations. Difficulty Telling Real Risks from Fake Ones: After a while, it becomes hard to figure out what's an actual threat and what's just noise. We might freak out over something minor but brush off something serious, which is not exactly ideal if we want to keep ourselves safe. Health Burnout: Constant alerts and stress keep us in a high-stress state, which isn't good for anyone. When we're always on edge, our bodies start to wear down—anxiety, high blood pressure, poor sleep, you name it. Eventually, we get so used to that stress that we become numb, and when something real happens, our bodies may not respond with the urgency we actually need. Community Safety Slips: Desensitization can even affect a whole community. If everyone starts to shrug off warnings, we can end up ignoring things like severe weather alerts or health warnings. This makes it easier for emergencies to do real damage because no one takes the steps they should to stay safe. Weaker Instincts and Slower Decision-Making: Constant worry over everything can mess with our survival instincts. When we're overloaded, it becomes harder to think clearly and react quickly. We can lose that sharp sense of what's actually dangerous and what's not, which messes with our natural ability to make quick, smart choices. More Apathy and Helplessness: Ever feel like there's just too much going on to make a difference? The more we're bombarded by negativity, the more likely we are to feel helpless. And when that sets in, we're less likely to step up when it actually counts or get involved in efforts that could make a positive change. Normalizing Risky Behavior: Over time, constant exposure to stories about danger or violence can make risky behavior seem normal. We might find ourselves being a bit too casual with things like safety precautions or risky habits because they don't seem like a big deal anymore. This desensitization isn't just about personal safety—it affects whole communities. Breaking out of it means setting some boundaries on our media intake, staying connected to the present, and making a conscious effort to focus on what we can control. That way, we're not only ready for real emergencies but also a lot less stressed out in general. CHALLENGE: Break free from the echo chamber—take a step back, question your sources, and seek out new perspectives that might surprise you. By doing this, you're empowering yourself to see the world in a fuller, richer way, staying curious, informed, and open-minded! I Know YOU Can Do It!
There's an ancient story of multiple blind men touching an elephant on different parts of its body. And each man emphatically states what the elephant is based on the body part. The guy touching the leg says the elephant is a tree trunk. The guy touching the ear says it's a huge pancake. The guy at the tail says it's a rope, and so on… Like the elephant parable demonstrates, finding reliable, truthful information can be—to put it mildly—a huge challenge. Oftentimes, we'll hear a story from one source and another source will contradict it. It can feel overwhelming to figure out what's what. A person who may be able to help us is Dr. Alex Edmans (https://alexedmans.com/), Professor of Finance at London Business School and author of a book I loved called May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about It. The book received praise from scientific journals, the media, and thought leaders like Dr. Kim Milkman, a well-known professor at Wharton, who said it was “required reading.”Alex shares how we can think like scientists. He has strategies to help us find our way through the mire of contradicting data, find our way out of our own biases and cognitive distortions, and find our way into more accurate information. So, listen in as Alex helps us figure out what we can do to see that elephant more accurately.
Alex speaks with Alex Edmans about his book May Contain Lies, examining the widespread issue of misinformation and exploring how factors like confirmation bias, cognitive shortcuts, and misleading statistics can shape public opinion. They discuss practical strategies for identifying and avoiding misinformation, along with the broader societal impact of misinterpreted data. References "May Contain Lies" by Alex Edmans Link: https://a.co/d/aX2AJ0I "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Thinking-Fast-Slow-Daniel-Kahneman/dp/0385676530 "Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction" by Philip E. Tetlock Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Superforecasting-Art-Science-Philip-Tetlock/dp/0804136696 "Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think" by Hans Rosling Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Factfulness-Reasons-World-Things-Better/dp/1250107814 "The Signal and the Noise: Why So Many Predictions Fail – but Some Don't" by Nate Silver Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Signal-Noise-Many-Predictions-Fail/dp/0143125087 "How to Lie with Statistics" by Darrell Huff Link: https://www.amazon.ca/How-Lie-Statistics-Darrell-Huff/dp/0393310728 "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447 Thanks to our patrons including: Amy Willis, Kris Rondolo, and Christopher McDonald. To become a patron, go to patreon.com/curioustask
Metanoia Lab | Liderança, inovação e transformação digital, por Andrea Iorio
Neste episódio especial da quarta temporada do Metanoia Lab, patrocinado pela Oi Soluções, o Andrea (andreaiorio.com) analisa uma frase do Alex Edmans, professor na London Business School e autor best-seller, que fala sobre como praticar pensamento crítico em um mundo de acesso infinito a informação. É um fato que existem vieses mentais que fazem com que mais informação não necessariamente se traduza em melhores decisões, e é justamente como superar esses vieses que o Andrea Iorio fala nesse episódio, que nos ajuda a desenvolver mais pensamento crítico.
September 27, 2024 Discussion on the book "May Contain Lies" by Alex Edmans by Dr. Farid Holakouee
In this engaging podcast episode, John Miles, high-performance coach and host of the award-winning Passion Struck podcast, shares his transformative framework for unlocking personal purpose and achieving extraordinary growth. Kicking off the Live Life Better Author Series at Book + Bottle, co-hosted by Nanette Wiser of Radio St. Pete, John delves into the power of intentional living.He emphasizes saying "yes" to opportunities that align with your true self and "no" to distractions. Drawing from his journey as a Navy officer and Fortune 50 executive, John explains how real fulfillment comes from serving others and pursuing your own dreams. He introduces practical tools like the importance versus urgency matrix to help prioritize what truly matters.John also shares personal stories, including a life-changing moment that pushed him to embrace his calling and help others find their purpose. He encourages listeners to build their "courage muscles" by taking intentional steps toward their goals and surrounding themselves with positive influences.The episode inspires listeners to pursue their passions, embrace reinvention, and recognize that the path to an extraordinary life is within reach for everyone willing to take the leap.Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/reinvent-yourself-the-journey-to-extraordinary/In this episode, you will learn:The significance of mindset shifts, behavior shifts, and the psychology of progress in personal development.The concept of living intentionally versus living on autopilot, illustrated through the metaphor of a pinball life.The role of courage muscles in pursuing your passions and overcoming self-limiting beliefs.The value of surrounding yourself with positive influences and recognizing toxic relationships, referred to as "mosquitoes."The importance of self-control and intentionality in achieving your goals.Personal anecdotes from John Miles about his journey and the transformative events that led him to write "Passion Struck."Practical exercises, such as the importance versus urgency choice matrix, to help prioritize actions in life.Sponsors:Babbel: Master a new language with Babbel's comprehensive learning system. Get 60% off at babbel.com/PASSION.Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Special Announcement:Join us for the Passion Struck 50-Week Challenge! This year-long journey is designed to help you unlock personal growth, fulfillment, and self-discovery through weekly challenges that push your boundaries and enhance every aspect of your life. Join a supportive community, benefit from expert guidance, and start your transformative journey today. Learn more and sign up here.Tune In:If you found this episode insightful, please share it with others who might benefit from these powerful lessons. Don't forget to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #PassionStruck and connect with John R. Miles on Twitter and Instagram at @John_RMiles.Catch More of Passion Struck:Check My solo episode on The Power of Choice — Why Our Choices Are PowerfulCatch my episode with Emile's good friend Jamil Zaki on how hope can conquer cynicismWatch my interview with Alex Edmans on Critical Thinking in a Post-truth WorldCan't miss my episode with Jeffrey C. Walker On The Criticality of Collaboration in Systems ChangeMy episode with Lori Gottlieb on Embracing Self-Compassion for a Better LifeIf you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don't forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John's website.Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!
How do you currently help your teen distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of information online? Have you noticed your teen questioning claims they hear on social media, and how do you guide them through those conversations? In this episode of Power Your Parenting: Moms with Teens, Colleen O'Grady interviews Alex Edmonds, author of May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases and What We Can Do About It. Together, they discuss the growing challenge of misinformation and how it impacts teens in today's world. Edmonds breaks down how teens are vulnerable to false claims online and what parents can do to help them navigate this complex digital landscape. Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. His TED talk "What to Trust in a Post-Truth World" has been viewed two million times; he has also spoken at the World Economic Forum, Davos, and the UK Parliament. In 2013, he was awarded tenure at the Wharton School, and in 2021, he was named MBA Professor of the Year by Poets&Quants. Edmans writes regularly for the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, and Harvard Business Review. His first book, Grow the Pie, was a Financial Times Book of the Year. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. The rise of social media and online platforms has made teens more vulnerable to misinformation, as they are frequently exposed to unverified information. Like adults, teens are susceptible to confirmation bias, meaning they gravitate toward information that aligns with their existing beliefs, which makes it harder for them to analyze opposing views critically. Their tendency toward black-and-white thinking further complicates matters, as they often see the world in absolutes, making them more likely to fall for exaggerated or simplistic claims. Teaching teens to engage in critical thinking, question the evidence behind the information they encounter, and assess sources is essential in combating misinformation. Parents play a vital role in this process by fostering an open dialogue, encouraging curiosity, and creating a home environment where critical thinking is valued. In a world dominated by social media influencers and viral content, misinformation spreads rapidly, especially when it taps into teens' cultural identities or trusted public figures, making parental guidance even more important. Find out more at maycontainlies.com Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/aedmans/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In today's episode, John R. Miles explores the concept of choice bracketing, a powerful framework that shows how the seemingly small decisions we make every day can compound over time to significantly impact our future. Drawing on the real-life examples of Jeff Bezos and Warren Buffett, we discuss how big-picture thinking helps avoid reactive, short-term choices in favor of intentional actions that align with long-term goals.The episode breaks down the science of decision-making, focusing on how balancing short-term comfort with long-term success requires shifting from narrow, isolated choices to a broader, portfolio of choices approach. You'll learn how Bezos applied the regret minimization framework to launch Amazon and how Buffett's investment philosophy is rooted in viewing life through a long-term lens.Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/choice-bracketing-portfolio-of-choices/In this episode, you will learn:How choice bracketing helps shift from reactive to intentional decision-making.The compounding effect of small, daily choices over time.How Jeff Bezos used the regret minimization framework to make life-altering decisions.Warren Buffett's long-term approach to balancing short-term comfort with future gains.The importance of viewing your life as a portfolio of decisions.Practical strategies for aligning your choices with long-term goals in your career, health, and personal growth.How to balance immediate gratification with sustainable success through big-picture thinking.Sponsors:Babbel: Master a new language with Babbel's comprehensive learning system. Get 60% off at babbel.com/PASSION.Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Special Announcement:Join us for the Passion Struck 50-Week Challenge! This year-long journey is designed to help you unlock personal growth, fulfillment, and self-discovery through weekly challenges that push your boundaries and enhance every aspect of your life. Join a supportive community, benefit from expert guidance, and start your transformative journey today. Learn more and sign up here.Tune In:If you found this episode insightful, please share it with others who might benefit from these powerful lessons. Don't forget to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #PassionStruck and connect with John R. Miles on Twitter and Instagram at @John_RMiles.Catch More of Passion Struck:Check My solo episode on The Power of Choice — Why Our Choices Are PowerfulCatch my episode with Emile's good friend Jamil Zaki on how hope can conquer cynicismWatch my interview with Alex Edmans on Critical Thinking in a Post-truth WorldCan't miss my episode with Jeffrey C. Walker On The Criticality of Collaboration in Systems ChangeMy episode with Lori Gottlieb on Embracing Self-Compassion for a Better LifeIf you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don't forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John's website.Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!
In this latest episode, we sit down with the brilliant Alex Edmans, renowned economist and professor at the London School of Business, to explore how misinformation shapes our views and decisions. Alex shares thought-provoking insights from his book May Contain Lies, diving into why we cling to certain beliefs and how our biases prevent us from learning. We also discuss how challenging our thinking is key to staying informed and making better decisions.Ready to break free from the comfort of misinformation and start thinking critically? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------JOIN THE MOVEMENT:GLLG Company Website: https://www.glennllopis.com/Age Of Personalization Website: https://ageofpersonalization.com/Contact Us: https://www.glennllopis.com/contact-us/Email Us: sandy@glennllopisgroup.comFOLLOW GLENN LLOPIS:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3tnBmP9Instagram: https://bit.ly/3fcziRVFacebook: https://bit.ly/33sCg1KTwitter: https://bit.ly/3HVT14B
“People will claim that something is rigorous because it's by an authority figure or it's written in a book. But anyone can write a book.” We often think the solution to misinformation is fact checking. But just checking facts is not enough. Even if a fact is 100% accurate, it could still be misleading – it could be a large-scale correlation when there's no causation. The solution to misinformation is not obtaining a PhD in statistics, London Business School professor Alex Edmans and author of “May Contain Lies” argues. We often already possess the discerning skills to distinguish truth within ourselves. Misinformation is so prevalent today because we suffer from confirmation bias, or the idea that we have a certain view of the world and we will latch onto any piece of evidence that supports our viewpoint. When we inject skepticism into our thought process, we can overcome these biases. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Go Deeper with Big Think: ►Become a Big Think Member Get exclusive access to full interviews, early access to new releases, Big Think merch and more. https://members.bigthink.com/?utm_sou... ►Get Big Think+ for Business Guide, inspire and accelerate leaders at all levels of your company with the biggest minds in business. https://bigthink.com/plus/great-leade... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About Alex Edmans: Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. Alex graduated from Oxford University and then worked for Morgan Stanley in investment banking (London) and fixed income sales and trading (New York). After a PhD in Finance from MIT Sloan as a Fulbright Scholar, he joined Wharton in 2007 and was tenured in 2013 shortly before moving to LBS. Alex's research interests are in corporate finance, responsible business and behavioural finance. He is a Director of the American Finance Association; Vice President of the Western Finance Association; Fellow, Director, and Chair of the Ethics Committee of the Financial Management Association; Fellow of the British Academy; and Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. From 2017-2022 he was Managing Editor of the Review of Finance, the leading academic finance journal in Europe. Alex has spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, testified in the UK Parliament, presented to the World Bank Board of Directors as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series, and given the TED talk What to Trust in a Post-Truth World and the TEDx talks The Pie-Growing Mindset and The Social Responsibility of Business with a combined 2.8 million views. He has written for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Harvard Business Review and World Economic Forum and been interviewed by Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, ITV, NPR, Reuters, Sky News, and Sky Sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles dives into the groundbreaking work of cognitive neuroscientist Emile Bruneau, who explored the psychological roots of conflict and how our brains can be rewired to foster empathy and peace. Discover how cognitive biases like in-group favoritism and dehumanization fuel division and learn actionable strategies to cultivate empathy, bridge divides, and resolve conflicts—whether in your personal life or on a global scale.John connects Bruneau's insights to intentional living, showing how we can apply these lessons to transform our relationships and live more purposefully. If you're looking to understand human conflict on a deeper level and find ways to create more meaningful, peaceful connections, this episode is a must-listen!Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/a-tribute-to-emile-bruneau-neuroscience-of-peace/In this episode, you will learn:How cognitive biases like in-group favoritism and dehumanization drive conflict and division.The role empathy plays in bridging divides and resolving conflicts at personal, societal, and global levels.Actionable techniques to cultivate empathy, including shared storytelling and perspective-taking.How Emile Bruneau's groundbreaking research reveals the psychology behind conflict escalation.Ways to challenge your own biases to foster understanding and create more meaningful relationships.Practical applications for reducing conflict in everyday life and large-scale disputes.How to integrate empathy and intentionality into your personal growth journeySponsors:Babbel: Master a new language with Babbel's comprehensive learning system. Get 60% off at babbel.com/PASSION.Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Special Announcement:Join us for the Passion Struck 50-Week Challenge! This year-long journey is designed to help you unlock personal growth, fulfillment, and self-discovery through weekly challenges that push your boundaries and enhance every aspect of your life. Join a supportive community, benefit from expert guidance, and start your transformative journey today. Learn more and sign up here.Tune In:If you found this episode insightful, please share it with others who might benefit from these powerful lessons. Don't forget to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #PassionStruck and connect with John R. Miles on Twitter and Instagram at @John_RMiles.Catch More of Passion Struck:Check My solo episode on The Power of Choice — Why Our Choices Are PowerfulWatch my interview with Alex Edmans on Critical Thinking in a Post-truth WorldListen to Robin Steinberg on Humanizing Justice Through CompassionCan't miss my episode with Jeffrey C. Walker On The Criticality of Collaboration in Systems ChangeMy episode with Lori Gottlieb on Embracing Self-Compassion for a Better LifeCatch my solo episode on 7 Reasons Why Acts of Kindness Are More than Meets the EyeIf you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don't forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John's website.Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!
Truth in Learning: in Search of Something! Anything!! Anybody?
We are rejoined by Will Thalheimer to talk about one of his favorite topics, awards in the L&D industry. Should we have them? Should we give them out? How do we do it better… if at all? We explore a pretty exhaustive list of the general issues with using and distributing awards among industry professionals by industry professional groups. Heck, we even find a few good points to support the tradition, as well. Are these industry awards fair? Are they judged effectively and fairly? What are, and should, be the criteria for winning an award? What rubric is used? Who designs the rubric? Are we even rewarding the “right” stuff (whatever that means)? What about money? Application fees? And paying for the awards? Bias? Vendor relationships? Heck, are these awards even manageable… doable in order to ensure claimed standards and fairness? Is an evolving approach, perhaps to think about certification? Who judges the judges? Will even hands out an award called the Neon Elephant Award, as he attempts to bypass many of the issues we discuss. You can learn more about it here: https://www.worklearning.com/2010/11/02/neon-elephant-award/. Does he succeed? Yes— we know there are tons of awards out there, so we are speaking generically. But the questions of fairness and appropriate judgement still hold. Matt references NASAGA. The North American Simulation and Gaming Association. We also reference ISPI, the International Society for Performance Improvement. Any conversation about awards within the context of L&D would, and should, lead to a conversation about program and practitioner evaluation. We, of couse, talk about Will's Learning Transfer Evaluation Model (LTEM). You can learn more about that here: https://www.worklearning.com/ltem/. Will brings up one of his passion ideas… that within L&D, we should have independent journalists investigating and report on how we do, what we do, and what we could do better. He originally talks it about it in the LDA Podcast, Episode 4. And what about impact? Is impact the key? Or, are we missing the boat? What about the differences between learning and impact? How do we ensure that our learning engagement was actually the cause of the identified impact. LDA had the wonderful, Alex Edmans, from the London Business School, on our MEET THE AUTHOR Series. The video is here: https://members.ldaccelerator.com/c/meet-the-author-space/meet-the-author-alex-edmans. We reference his new book, May Contain Lies. You can find the book and learn more about Alex, here: https://alexedmans.com/books/ Will's new book is The CEO's Guide to Training, eLearning, and Work. You can learn more and buy it here: https://www.ceosguide.net. You can learn more about Will here: https://www.worklearning.com/about/.
In this episode of Passion Struck, John explores the powerful and often overlooked influence of Mean World Syndrome. This psychological phenomenon shapes not only our perception of the world but also the choices we make every day. Born from the relentless stream of fear-driven media, this syndrome skews our reality, convincing us that danger is everywhere. But it goes deeper than fear; it affects how we interact with others, our decisions, and our lives. Join John R. Miles as we uncover the profound impact of Mean World Syndrome on your mind and behavior and discover how to reclaim control over your thoughts and choices. Are you leading your life, or is Mean World Syndrome leading you?Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/how-mean-world-syndrome-shapes-mind-and-choices/Key Takeaways:Understand the Impact of Mean World SyndromeDiscover how constant exposure to negative media skews your view of the world, leading to unnecessary fears and skewed decision-making.Design Your Day for SuccessLearn how to set clear, positive intentions each day to counteract the effects of Mean World Syndrome and align your actions with your true goals.Challenge Your Negative Inner DialogueJohn provides practical techniques for identifying and challenging the fear-based thoughts amplified by media, helping you reprogram your mindset.Reconnect with Your CommunityFind out how engaging with your local community can ground you in reality, rebuild trust, and counteract the isolation and mistrust fueled by Mean World Syndrome.Sponsors:Babbel: Master a new language with Babbel's comprehensive learning system. Get 60% off at babbel.com/PASSION.Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Special Announcement:Join us for the Passion Struck 50-Week Challenge! This year-long journey is designed to help you unlock personal growth, fulfillment, and self-discovery through weekly challenges that push your boundaries and enhance every aspect of your life. Join a supportive community, benefit from expert guidance, and start your transformative journey today. Learn more and sign up here.Tune In:If you found this episode insightful, please share it with others who might benefit from these powerful lessons. Don't forget to join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #PassionStruck and connect with John R. Miles on Twitter and Instagram at @John_RMiles.Catch More of Passion Struck:Check My solo episode on The Power of Choice — Why Our Choices Are PowerfulWatch my interview with Alex Edmans on Critical Thinking in a Post-truth WorldCan't miss my episode with Jeffrey C. Walker On The Criticality of Collaboration in Systems ChangeMy episode with Lori Gottlieb on Embracing Self-Compassion for a Better LifeCatch my solo episode on 7 Reasons Why Acts of Kindness Are More than Meets the EyeIf you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don't forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John's website.Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” - Ephesians 2:10Our good works are not for our sake but for God's sake, to give Him glory. Investing gives us a powerful way to do that. Today, we'll talk with Dr. Finny Kuruvilla about investing to change the world.Dr. Finny Kuruvilla is the Co-Chief Investment Officer and Founding Member of Eventide Asset Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He holds an MD from Harvard Medical School, a PhD in Chemistry and Chemical Biology from Harvard University, a master's degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT, and a bachelor's degree from Caltech in Chemistry.The Purpose of InvestingInvesting has always been about supplying capital to businesses. This concept originated in the 1400s and 1500s with the rise of corporations, particularly those financing maritime trade. Investing primarily aims to fund companies to help them do good work. However, this purpose can be perverted to support businesses that go against God's design for humanity. Hence, it's crucial to remember that investing should always aim to fund ethical companies.Investing as OwnershipWhen you invest, you become a part-owner of a company, which carries an ethical responsibility. Like owning a small business, you are accountable for the actions of the companies you invest in. This ownership confers a duty to ensure these businesses align with your values and promote good.Integrity in InvestingRomans 12:9 states, "Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good." This principle applies to investing as well. To maintain integrity, you should avoid profiting from industries that contradict your values, such as pornography or tobacco. Instead, invest in businesses that advance the common good, like those making significant strides in healthcare and biotechnology.For example, advances in treatments for leukemia have dramatically increased children's survival rates, thanks to innovative companies in the healthcare sector. These companies exemplify how investment capital can drive significant positive outcomes.Performance and OutperformanceInvesting in businesses that promote the common good can lead to long-term outperformance. Studies, like those referenced in Fred Reichheld's "Winning on Purpose" and Alex Edmans' "Grow the Pie," show that companies adding value to their stakeholders often outperform their peers. This approach aligns with the biblical principle of loving your neighbor and can result in superior long-term returns.Eventide's ApproachEventide uses a framework called Business 360 to evaluate how companies interact with various stakeholders, including customers, employees, and the community. By focusing on companies excelling in value creation, Eventide aims to identify businesses aligned with promoting the global common good and likely to outperform over the long term.The future is bright for Faith-Based Investing because of the growing awareness in faith-based and secular circles that investing inherently involves ethical considerations. This awareness will lead to more opportunities to use investment dollars constructively, promoting values that align with a vision for a better world.Investing with integrity means aligning your investments with your values and ethical responsibilities. As Christians, this involves avoiding industries that contradict biblical principles and supporting those that advance the common good. Doing so can achieve both financial returns and a positive global impact. To learn more about this approach to investing, visit Eventide Funds.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I heard somewhere that you can take 4% a year out of your 401(k)s, and they should last you, but I'm looking for information like that. How much? When do we start taking money from these 401(k)s?I could not file my income taxes on time this year, but I did again and got an extension. Are there any penalties that I need to be aware of? I also have become very lazy regarding budgeting, keeping my finances, and keeping on track with them. How do I start over? Where do I begin?Resources Mentioned:Eventide Asset ManagementWinning on Purpose: The Unbeatable Strategy of Loving Customers by Fred ReichheldGrow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit by Alex EdmansRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
My guest today is Alex Edmans, and we're hitting a super important topic this week: how to discuss fake news and social media with our teens. Alex starts by explaining the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 of Fake News, and I ask what to do (and why) our teens bring up conspiracy theories. I ask Alex how we can nurture adolescents to fine tune their questioning, look for expertise, and teach them to look for peoples' incentives while they're consuming social media without making them feel defensive. Later we talk about sextortion. How can we keep our teens from falling for scams, when their teenage brains are certain they'd never fall for one? Alex ends on a happy, hopeful note and shares an easy strategy to challenge your own confirmation biases. Takeaways from the show Level 1 fake news (provably false statements) versus Level 2 fake news (factually correct but misleading) What to say when our teens bring up conspiracy theories Why do people share fake news? Teaching teens to be discerning & leverage their own knowledge Asking yourself: What is the incentive this person has to post this? Are they an expert? Sextortion - anyone can be scammed online Teens absolutely must believe they can come to you in an “oh shit” moment How discerning are you on your social media? For more show notes, including transcripts, visit our website here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When we think about misinformation, we often focus on blatant errors or deliberate attempts to deceive us. But in recent years, social scientists have found that misinformation comes in many flavors — many of which are far more subtle than obvious falsehoods. These forms of misinformation prey on our mental blindspots, and take advantage of our passions and loyalties. This week, economist Alex Edmans explores the many insidious forms of misinformation, and how we can all get better at separating fact from fiction.For more of our work, please consider joining our podcast subscription. Hidden Brain+ is where you'll find exclusive interviews and deeper dives into the ideas we explore on the show. You can try Hidden Brain+ with a free seven-day trial at apple.co/hiddenbrain. Or if you're an Android user, sign up at support.hiddenbrain.org.
Professor and TED speaker Alex Edmans of the London Business School joins Meeting of Minds for a wide-ranging discussion on confirmation bias, decision making, and how ESG analysis can become tied to biased/black-and-white thinking that renders people and industries dumber.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to episode #941 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #941. He is a finance professor at London Business School, and Alex Edmans knows his stuff. With a background that spans Morgan Stanley and a PhD from MIT, Alex's insights on corporate finance, responsible business, and behavioral finance are top-notch. He's a TED talk star, with millions of views, and his research has been featured everywhere from the World Economic Forum to the UK Parliament. In our conversation, Alex dives into his latest book, May Contain Lies - How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It (he is also the author of Grow The Pie and Principles of Corporate Finance). We explore the tricky terrain of our post-truth world and the fine line between fact and fiction and conspiracy theories. Alex breaks down the role of statistical significance and why simple messages can be so appealing — and misleading. It's not just about the facts... it's about how they get twisted. We also tackle the financial incentives that drive misinformation. Alex is big on critical thinking and urges us all to look beyond the surface. He explains the ladder of mis-inference, making it clear why we need to understand the differences between statements, facts, data, and evidence. We get into the weeds about peer review in academic research and the biases that can creep in. Alex talks about the internet's role in spreading misinformation and how social media can create echo chambers. He's all about teaching critical thinking early and often. I loved reading May Contain Lies... and it really is more than just a book - it's a guide to navigating the murky waters of modern information. Alex uses real-world examples to show how biases distort our views and decision-making. He offers practical tips to cut through the noise and think smarter. So, if you're tired of being misled and want to make better decisions (and, who isn't always fooled by “facts”?), take a listen. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:00:43. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Alex Edmans. May Contain Lies - How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It. Grow The Pie. Principles of Corporate Finance. Follow Alex on LinkedIn. Follow Alex on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways The concept of a post-truth world goes beyond the question of whether something is factually true or not. It also includes the potential for misleading inferences drawn from accurate information. Statistical significance can help evaluate the reliability of claims, but it is important to consider the broader context and potential biases in interpreting the results. Simplistic messages that align with people's pre-existing views are more likely to be accepted and shared, even if they lack scientific rigor or evidence. The prevalence of misinformation is driven by financial incentives and the desire for quick fixes and easy solutions. While misinformation poses challenges, there are also opportunities for more nuanced and informed discussions, particularly among open-minded individuals who value scientific consensus. AI can be both a solution and a problem in addressing misinformation, as it can help identify scientific consensus but also be used to spread false information. Peer review is a useful but imperfect process for evaluating the accuracy and quality of academic research. Being discerning consumers of information requires recognizing our own biases and questioning the validity of statements, facts, data, and evidence. Teaching critical thinking from a young age is essential to combat misinformation and make informed decisions. Being discerning does not mean being overly suspicious, but rather applying critical thinking to important decisions and recognizing the limitations of evidence. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Alex Edmans. 07:17 - The Desire for Black and White Rules. 15:31 - The Incentives for Producing and Consuming Misinformation. 28:57 - The Limitations of Peer Review. 35:49 - The Ladder of Mis-Inference. 50:22 - The Impact of the Internet.
In this compelling episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles dives deep into the enigmatic world of irrationality. Guided by Albert Einstein's famous quote on insanity, John unravels why we often make decisions that defy logic and reason. Using the timeless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet as a vivid case study, he illustrates how cognitive biases, emotional influences, and brain mechanisms drive us toward irrational behavior.Explore the intricacies of confirmation bias, availability heuristic, and anchoring, and discover how these cognitive shortcuts shape our decisions. Delve into the psychological impact of emotions like fear, anger, and excitement, and understand the crucial role of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in our decision-making processes.Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://passionstruck.com/taming-irrationality-proven-ways-better-choices/In this episode, you will learn: The definition of irrationality and how it differs from rational behavior.How cognitive biases like confirmation bias, availability heuristic, and anchoring influence our decisions.The role of emotions such as fear, anger, and excitement in driving irrational actions.The impact of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin on decision-making processes.Evolutionary traits and survival mechanisms that contribute to irrational behavior.The influence of social norms, culture, and peer pressure on our decisions.How cognitive load and stress can impair rational thinking.Personal and societal consequences of irrational behavior.Practical strategies to mitigate irrationality, including awareness, mindfulness, and structured decision-making.The importance of behavioral interventions and seeking diverse perspectives.Techniques for managing stress to maintain clear and rational thinking.Insights from the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet, illustrating the powerful forces behind irrational behavior.Sponsors--► For information about advertisers and promo codes, go to:https://passionstruck.com/deals/https://passionstruck.com/passion-struck-book/—Order a copy of my new book, "Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life," today! The book was selected by the Next Big Idea Club as a must-read for 2024 and received numerous accolades, including Best Non-Fiction Book at the International Book Awards, the Mary P. Smith Reader's Choice Award, Business Minds Best Book 2024, a Gold Medal from the Non-Fiction Book Awards, and the Eric Hoffer Book Award.Unlock Your Best Year Yet: Join The Passion Struck Weekly Challenges!Prepare to embark on a life-changing journey with our weekly Passion Struck challenges. This isn't just a series of tasks; it's a comprehensive quest toward personal fulfillment, growth, and self-discovery. Every week introduces a new challenge, carefully crafted to enhance every aspect of your life.Why Take The 50-Week Challenge?Unearth New Perspectives: Each week unveils new viewpoints, skills to acquire, or untapped strengths.Push Your Boundaries: Embrace challenges that extend your comfort zone and amplify your capabilities.Join a Supportive Community: Connect with a dynamic group of individuals on the same path, offering encouragement, inspiration, and solidarity.Benefit from Expert Guidance: As your mentor, I'll provide insights, support, and professional advice to help you through each challenge.What Awaits You?Diverse Challenges: Addressing physical health, mental sharpness, emotional resilience, and spiritual enrichment.Practical Actions: These are straightforward, achievable steps that easily blend into your daily life.Weekly Encouragement: Newsletters featuring tips, success stories, and encouragement to keep you motivated.Exclusive Resources: Access to unique materials, expert interviews, and tailored advice as a subscriber.Start Your Transformative JourneySigning up is the first step toward a year of growth and self-discovery. Overcome each challenge and become an inspiration to others.How to BeginSubscribe to Our Newsletter: Fill in your details to join the challenge and receive your weekly guide.Initiate with Your First Challenge: Start your adventure with an engaging task delivered to your inbox.Engage with Our Online Community: Exchange experiences and find support in our exclusive group.Embrace a Year of Evolution: Prepare for a year where each week brings you closer to your best self.Catch More of Passion StruckCheck My solo episode on The Power of Choice — Why Our Choices Are PowerfulWatch my interview with Alex Edmans on Critical Thinking in a Post-truth WorldCan't miss my episode with Marianne Lewis and Wendy Smith on Applying Both/And Thinking to Solve Your Toughest ProblemsMy solo episode on What Are Cognitive Biases and 6 Ways to Stop ThemCatch my solo episode on Why Your Micro Choices Determine Your Life Like this show? Please leave us a review here-- even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!How to Connect with JohnConnect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @john_R_Miles.Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMilesSubscribe to our YouTube Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@passionstruckclipsWant to uncover your profound sense of Mattering? I provide my master class with five simple steps to achieving it.Want to hear my best interviews? Check out my starter packs on intentional behavior change, women at the top of their game, longevity, and well-being, and overcoming adversity.Learn more about John: https://johnrmiles.com/
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Welcome to an interview with the author of May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about It, Alex Edmans. In this book, renowned economist Alex Edmans teaches us how to separate fact from fiction. Using colorful examples, he highlights the biases that cause us to mistake statements for facts, facts for data, data for evidence, and evidence for proof. Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School and an expert in the use and misuse of data and evidence. He has given the TED talk What to Trust in a Post-Truth World with 2 million views, spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, and testified in the UK Parliament. Alex served as Managing Editor of the Review of Finance, the leading academic finance journal in Europe. He has written for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and Harvard Business Review, and been interviewed by Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, ITV, NPR, Reuters, Sky News, and Sky Sports. He was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. Alex's first book, Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit, was featured in the Financial Times Best Business Books of 2020 and has been translated into nine languages. Alex was named Professor of the Year by Poets & Quants in 2021 and won 25 teaching awards at LBS and Wharton. Alex has a BA from Oxford and a PhD from MIT as a Fulbright Scholar, and is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. Get May Contain Lies here: https://maycontainlies.com/ Learn more about Alex Edmans here: https://alexedmans.com/ Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo
Alex Edmans, author of May Contain Lies, delves into how confirmation bias and belief polarization skew our perceptions, offering tips for parents to help their teenagers navigate misinformation and think critically.If you've enjoyed Talking to Teens, we'd love if you could leave us a five-star rating, and if you have time, a review! Full Show NotesIn today's digital world, misinformation spreads faster than ever. Even as adults, we often find ourselves believing things that aren't true or are more nuanced than we think. The issue becomes even more critical when considering how we raise teenagers to be discerning and truth-seeking individuals.How do we guide teens to differentiate fact from fiction in a sea of misleading information? How can we teach them to critically evaluate the plethora of claims they encounter daily—whether in social media, news, or even school? The ability to critically question and analyze data is a vital skill, and it's more crucial now than ever.To delve into the complexities of misinformation and how to tackle it, we're speaking with Alex Edmans, a professor of finance at London Business School. Alex's TED Talk, "What to Trust in a Post-Truth World," has resonated with millions, and his book, May Contain Lies, explores how biases impact our understanding and decision-making processes. With a keen focus on both finance and everyday life, Alex offers deep insights and practical advice on how to navigate a world filled with skewed information.Understanding Confirmation BiasConfirmation bias is a significant issue that affects how we process information. Alex highlights that we often accept information that aligns with our pre-existing beliefs uncritically, while scrutinizing information that contradicts our views. This is prevalent not just in finance and economics, Alex's fields of expertise, but also in everyday topics like parenting and healthcare.For instance, Alex describes how widely accepted recommendations like exclusive breastfeeding may not be as beneficial as we think. While these claims are backed by reputable sources like the World Health Organization, they may overlook other contributing factors like socio-economic status and family support systems. By critically examining the research and understanding its context, we can make more informed decisions and avoid unnecessary guilt.Tackling Black and White ThinkingAnother prevalent bias Alex addresses is black and white thinking, where we categorize things as entirely good or bad with no gray areas. This kind of thinking is aided by simple, extreme messages that go viral on social media but often lack nuance. Alex illustrates this with the example of the Atkins diet, which gained popularity for its extreme stance on carbohydrates, even though it oversimplifies the role of carbs in a balanced diet.For parents, understanding and combating these biases can help in guiding teenagers to see beyond black and white categorizations. Encouraging them to reason through their beliefs and understand the nuances can foster more critical and balanced thinking.Solutions: The Ladder of MisargumentTo help teenagers and parents alike navigate misinformation, Alex introduces the "Ladder of Misargument," a framework that breaks down common types of misinformation into four categories:A statement is not a fact: Understand the context and accuracy of the information.Facts are not data: Ensure the facts are representative and not isolated.Data is not evidence: Look for causation, not just correlation.Evidence is not proof: Recognize that evidence may not be universal or applicable in all contexts.Creating a Culture of Inquiry and DialogueEncouraging skeptical thinking in teenagers isn't just about teaching them to question authority but creating a culture where it's safe to ask questions and express doubts. Alex discusses how a high-power hierarchy can stifle honest communication and the flow of ideas. By reducing hierarchical barriers and fostering open dialogue, whether in families or workplaces, we can create environments where critical thinking thrives.Parents can also model this behavior by openly discussing their thought processes and demonstrating how to critically analyze information. Encouraging teenagers to explain their viewpoints in detail can help them see the limitations of their own understanding and foster a habit of thorough investigation.In the Episode…Alex shares a wealth of insights on how to cultivate critical thinking and avoid common pitfalls of misinformation. Tune in to learn about:How sports results can mysteriously affect the stock marketThe importance of asking detailed questions and listeningWays to foster healthy debate within familiesHow to identify and mitigate common biases in everyday decisionsIf you enjoyed this week's episode, you can find more from Alex on his website, alexedmans.com, or follow him on LinkedIn under the username A Edmans. Don't forget to share and subscribe, and we'll see you next week!Follow us on Social Media! We're @talkingtoteens on Instagram and TikTok
Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 459, featuring an interview with the author of May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about It, Alex Edmans. In this book, renowned economist Alex Edmans teaches us how to separate fact from fiction. Using colorful examples, he highlights the biases that cause us to mistake statements for facts, facts for data, data for evidence, and evidence for proof. Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School and an expert in the use and misuse of data and evidence. He has given the TED talk What to Trust in a Post-Truth World with 2 million views, spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, and testified in the UK Parliament. Alex served as Managing Editor of the Review of Finance, the leading academic finance journal in Europe. He has written for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and Harvard Business Review, and been interviewed by Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, ITV, NPR, Reuters, Sky News, and Sky Sports. He was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. Alex's first book, Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit, was featured in the Financial Times Best Business Books of 2020 and has been translated into nine languages. Alex was named Professor of the Year by Poets & Quants in 2021 and won 25 teaching awards at LBS and Wharton. Alex has a BA from Oxford and a PhD from MIT as a Fulbright Scholar, and is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. Get May Contain Lies here: https://maycontainlies.com/ Learn more about Alex Edmans here: https://alexedmans.com/ Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo
How often do you question the 'facts' you encounter in everyday life? This week, Alex Edmans, author of May Contain Lies, joins Kurt and Tim to question the world around us. They explore the significance of critical thinking and cognitive diversity, highlighting the value of diverse perspectives and evidence-based reasoning. They discuss the differences between facts and statements, the dangers of misleading inferences from evidence, and the impact of perception on communication. Creating an environment where individuals can express their viewpoints freely is crucial. This includes fostering a culture where a devil's advocate can provide critical feedback and considering alternative explanations to avoid confirmation bias in our everyday lives. For a bit of fun (and for Tim too!), Alex explains his research on how music preferences can predict stock market trends and the challenge of separating emotional effects from fundamental factors. During their Grooving Session, Kurt and Tim encourage listeners to apply a scientific mindset when evaluating information and to promote cognitive diversity within their workspaces. Tune in to enhance your critical thinking skills, appreciate the nuances in decision-making, and learn how to foster a culture of scientific inquiry in your workplace and beyond. © 2024 Behavioral Grooves Topics [5:07] Intro and speed round [9:30] The importance of critical thinking and avoiding confirmation bias [16:37] Misinformation and how it's presented [27:56] How to evaluate scientific claims by checking sources [33:08] The importance of cognitive diversity [42:07] Using music to predict stock market trends [49:26] Grooving Session: Overcoming biases to make informed decisions © 2024 Behavioral Grooves Links Alex Edmans ‘May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases - And What We Can Do About It' Wason Selection Task Sports Sentiment and Stock Returns How Cognitive Biases Influence the Way You Think and Act Musical Links Earth, Wind, and Fire “September” Fleetwood Mac “The Chain”
Alex Edmans shows you how to think smarter, sharper, and more critically so you can make better decisions. — YOU'LL LEARN — 1) How our biases are holding us back 2) The ladder of misinference that mucks up our thinking 3) Why we end up mistaking statements for facts Subscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep969 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT ALEX — Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. Alex has a PhD from MIT as a Fulbright Scholar, and was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. Alex has spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, testified in the UK Parliament, and given TED/TEDx talks with a combined 2.8 million views. He was named Professor of the Year by Poets & Quants in 2021.• Book: Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit • Book: May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about It • Book site: MayContainLies.com • Linked: Alex Edmans • TEDx Talk: The Pie-Growing Mindset | Alex Edmans | TEDxManchester • Twitter/X: @aedmans • Website: AlexEdmans.com — RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Article: “Addiction Rare in Patients Treated with Narcotics” by Jane Porter and Hershel Jick • Book: Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear • Book: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport • Book: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth • Book: Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia and Bill Gifford • Book: Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek • Book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen Covey • TED Talk: How diversity makes teams more innovative | Rocío Lorenzo | TED — THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Acorns. Start saving and investing for your future today with Acorns.com/awesome• Storyworth. Give the Fathers in your life a unique, heartfelt gift. Save $10 with at StoryWorth.com/Awesome with the promo code AWESOME.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Order a copy of my book, "Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life," today! This book, a 2024 must-read chosen by the Next Big Idea Club, has garnered multiple accolades, including the Business Minds Best Book Award, the Eric Hoffer Award, and the Non-Fiction Book Awards Gold Medal. Don't miss out on the opportunity to transform your life with these powerful principles!In this episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles interviews Professor Alex Edmans on the importance of critical thinking in a post-truth world. Edmans discusses biases such as confirmation bias and black-and-white thinking that affect how people interpret information. He highlights examples like the Brexit referendum and the narrative fallacy to illustrate how misinformation can influence decision-making. The episode emphasizes the need to scrutinize information, disentangle correlation from causation, and consider different perspectives to make informed decisions in a world filled with misinformation.Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://passionstruck.com/alex-edmans-critical-thinking-a-post-truth-world/In this episode, you will learn:Post-truth world: Misinformation is prevalent and people tend to believe what aligns with their biases and identity, rather than facts.Data interpretation: Data can be manipulated to support a particular narrative, leading to misleading conclusions.Narrative fallacy: Creating a cause-effect explanation where none exists, often seen in successful books and talks that present a simplified story to explain success.Causation vs. correlation: Understanding the difference is crucial to avoid misinterpreting data and drawing incorrect conclusions.Context matters: Cultural context influences how information is perceived and spread, highlighting the importance of understanding different perspectives.Critical thinking: Applying critical thinking skills to scrutinize information, consider alternativeAll things Alex Edmans: https://alexedmans.com/SponsorsBrought to you by Clariton, fast and powerful relief is just a quick trip away. Ask for Claritin-D at your local pharmacy counter. You don't even need a prescription! Go to “CLARITIN DOT COM” right now for a discount so you can Live Claritin Clear.--► For information about advertisers and promo codes, go to:https://passionstruck.com/deals/Catch More of Passion StruckCan't miss my episode with Marianne Lewis and Wendy Smith on Applying Both/And Thinking to Solve Your Toughest ProblemsMy solo episode on Does the Concept of Free Will Really ExistListen to my interview with Dr. Dolly Chugh on A More Just Future and How Biases Impact Our LivesWatch my episode with Arthur Smith on the Mind-blowing Art of Intentional StorytellingCan't miss my episode with Katy Milkman on Creating Lasting Behavior Change for GoodLike this show? Please leave us a review here-- even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally!
Why is misinformation so prevalent, and what can we do about it? On this episode, I'm speaking with Alex Edmans, a London Business School Finance Professor who has written a book called ‘May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases and What We Can Do About It'. Alex's areas of focus are purposeful business, sustainable investing, corporate governance, and behavioural finance. He's also very prepared to use his platform to challenge people who propagate inaccuracies or misleading information. In our discussion, we explore why he wrote his book, the impact of cognitive biases on decision-making, and practical solutions to navigate a world rife with misinformation. You'll hear about the pitfalls of relying on research produced with an agenda in mind and why we need to be wary when we're told that a particular academic establishment has published a piece of research. Alex also explains why the popular belief that if you spend 10,000 hours on a particular activity, you'll have to be skilled at it might not be all it seems and why popular management mantras like ‘start with why' aren't as effective as those who propose them might like us to believe. He talks about his own experiences and why his judgement has been just as vulnerable to biases as ours. Find out why cognitive diversity matters and why we shouldn't listen to everyone's views. Timestamp Highlights: (Produced by AI)[00:00:00] IntroductionChristian introduces Professor Alex Edmans and discusses his impact on social media and public discourse.[00:01:00] Motivation for Writing "May Contain Lies"Alex explains his transition from academic research to writing about misinformation and the importance of discerning data accuracy over personal biases.[00:02:00] Cognitive Biases and Their ImpactDiscussion on confirmation bias and black-and-white thinking and how they affect our perception of data and evidence.[00:04:00] Personal Experiences with BiasAlex shares personal anecdotes illustrating how even experts can fall prey to biases and misinformation.[00:08:00] The 10,000 Hours RuleA critical look at Malcolm Gladwell's popular concept and its misinterpretations.[00:13:00] Research and Decision-MakingThe importance of scrutinising academic research and the pitfalls of relying solely on endorsements and institutional affiliations.[00:21:00] Statistical LiteracyAlex emphasises the need for statistical literacy from an early age and practical ways to teach it.[00:23:00] Balancing Data and AnecdotesHow to effectively use stories and data to make informed decisions.[00:25:00] Encouraging Cognitive DiversityThe value of different perspectives in decision-making processes and organisational settings.[00:29:00] Flaws in Consultant ResearchCritique of research produced by consultancies like McKinsey and the difference between advocacy and genuine scientific inquiry.[00:36:00] Limits of Cognitive DiversityDiscussing when it might be necessary to draw the line in accepting diverse viewpoints, especially in the context of misinformation.[00:41:00] Societal Solutions to MisinformationProposals for improving transparency in endorsements and the peer review process to combat misinformation.[00:46:00] Role of GatekeepersThe diminishing role of traditional gatekeepers in the age of social media and the importance of self-regulation and critical thinking.[00:55:00] Ethical Presentation of DataEncouraging ethical behaviour in the presentation of data and the potential for individuals to influence organisational culture positively.[00:59:00] Closing RemarksChristian wraps up the conversation, highlighting the key takeaways from the discussion and thanking Alex for his insights.Key Quotes:"Misinformation has always been around, but the ease with which it spreads today is unprecedented.""The goal is not to enslave the reader to think like a statistician but to allow them to live more freely by being discerning with information."Resources Mentioned:Book: "May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases and What We Can Do About It" by Alex EdmansWebsite: maycontainlies.comFollow Alex Edmans:Twitter/XLinkedInSubscribe & Follow:To discover episodes of the show you might have missed, visit the show's websiteFollow Christian on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Here's a thought: What if the real secret to making more money was to focus less on the money itself? True success in organizations isn't just about chasing profits, but about being driven by a genuine purpose. It's about making a meaningful impact, serving a greater cause, and adding value to the world.In this episode of the HAPPINESS SQUAD Podcast, Ashish chats with Alex Edmans, a multi-award-winning professor of finance at London Business School with a PhD in finance from MIT Sloan. As a Fulbright scholar, he joined Wharton in 2007 before moving to London Business School. His TED talk, "The Pie Growing Mindset” and “The Social Responsibility of Business," has a combined 2.8 million views. He's written for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and the Harvard Business Review.The focus of this conversation is Alex's book, 'Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit'. Through quantitative research, Alex introduces the concept of growing value for all stakeholders rather than merely dividing it. He presents three pivotal principles that guide organizations in defining their purpose. Ashish supplements this with examples from his own work, ensuring that leaders, shareholders, or stakeholders of organizations will benefit. Ready to redefine success and discover the power of purpose in organizations? Listen to this episode now!Things you will also learn from this episode:• The concept of ‘growing the pie' and long-term greed• The correlation and causation of employee satisfaction and stock returns• The power of purpose in maximizing profitResources:• Alex Edmans' website: http://www.alexedmans.com/ • Growth the Pie website: http://www.growthepie.net/ • TED Talk: The Pie-Growing Mindset https://www.ted.com/talks/alex_edmans_the_pie_growing_mindset • TED Talk: The Social Responsibility of Business https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5KZhm19EO0 Books:• Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit
May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do about It by Alex Edmans https://amzn.to/3V02O31 How our biases cause us to fall for misinformation—and how to combat it. Our lives are minefields of misinformation. It ripples through our social media feeds, our daily headlines, and the pronouncements of politicians, executives, and authors. Stories, statistics, and studies are everywhere, allowing people to find evidence to support whatever position they want. Many of these sources are flawed, yet by playing on our emotions and preying on our biases, they can gain widespread acceptance, warp our views, and distort our decisions. In this eye-opening book, renowned economist Alex Edmans teaches us how to separate fact from fiction. Using colorful examples—from a wellness guru's tragic but fabricated backstory to the blunders that led to the Deepwater Horizon disaster to the diet that ensnared millions yet hastened its founder's death—Edmans highlights the biases that cause us to mistake statements for facts, facts for data, data for evidence, and evidence for proof. Armed with the knowledge of what to guard against, he then provides a practical guide to combat this tide of misinformation. Going beyond simply checking the facts and explaining individual statistics, Edmans explores the relationships between statistics—the science of cause and effect—ultimately training us to think smarter, sharper, and more critically. May Contain Lies is an essential read for anyone who wants to make better sense of the world and better About the author Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. Alex has a PhD from MIT as a Fulbright Scholar, and was previously a tenured professor at Wharton and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. Alex has spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, testified in the UK Parliament, and given the TED talk “What to Trust in a Post-Truth World” and the TEDx talks “The Pie-Growing Mindset” and “The Social Responsibility of Business” with a combined 2.8 million views. He serves as non-executive director of the Investor Forum, on the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Responsible Investing, and on Royal London Asset Management's Responsible Investment Advisory Committee. Alex's book, “Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit”, was a Financial Times Book of the Year for 2020 and has been translated into nine languages, and he is a co-author of “Principles of Corporate Finance” (with Brealey, Myers, and Allen). He has won 25 teaching awards at Wharton and LBS and was named Professor of the Year by Poets & Quants in 2021. His latest book, "May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It" will be published by Penguin Random House in April 2024.
In this episode, Xavier Bonilla has a dialogue with Alex Edmans about misinformation and the role of human biases. They discuss how to look at data, confirmation bias, statements not facts, facts not data, and the value and limits of the scientific method. They also discuss data mining and ethics with stats, correlation not being causation, data with social issues, and many more topics.Alex Edmans is Professor of Professor of Finance at London Business School. He has a degree from Oxford University and a PhD in Finance from MIT Sloan as a Fulbright Scholar. Prior to teaching at LBS, he taught at Wharton and became tenured in 2013. He is a Director of the American Finance Association, Vice President-Elect of the Western Finance Association, Fellow, Director, and Chair of the Ethics Committee of the Financial Management Association, and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. From 2017-2022, he was Managing Editor of the Review of Finance, the leading academic finance journal in Europe. Alex's research interests are in corporate finance, responsible business and behavioral finance. He is a Director of the American Finance Association, Vice President-Elect of the Western Finance Association, Fellow, Director, and Chair of the Ethics Committee of the Financial Management Association, and a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. From 2017-2022 he was Managing Editor of the Review of Finance, the leading academic finance journal in Europe. Alex has spoken at the World Economic Forum in Davos, testified in the UK Parliament, presented to the World Bank Board of Directors as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series, and given the TED talk What to Trust in a Post-Truth World and the TEDx talks The Pie-Growing Mindset and The Social Responsibility of Business. He has written for the Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Harvard Business Review and World Economic Forum and been interviewed by Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, CNN, ESPN, Fox, ITV, NPR, Reuters, Sky News, and Sky Sports. He is the author of the latest book, May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It.Website: https://alexedmans.com/ Get full access to Converging Dialogues at convergingdialogues.substack.com/subscribe
ESG (or “ethical, social, and governance”) investing has been one of the hottest financial trends in recent years. It promises something that sounds too good to be true: You can invest in a way that aligns with your moral compass, and you don't have to sacrifice returns to do it. But…can you? We're joined by Alex Edmans, a professor of finance at London Business School and expert in the field, to help us cut through the greenwashing. Transcripts, show notes, production credits, and more can be found at: https://moneywithkatie.com/sustainable-investing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How prevalent are psychological biases like confirmation bias and black-and-white in your thinking? Listen to Jason Mitchell discuss with Professor Alex Edmans, London Business School, about why misinformation is a problem that affects us all; how we can counter it through more critical, rigorous analysis; and what it means for the world of sustainable investing. Alex Edmans is Professor of Finance at London Business School. Alex serves as non-executive director of the Investor Forum, on the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Responsible Investing, on Royal London Asset Management's Responsible Investment Advisory Committee, and on Novo Nordisk's Sustainability Advisory Council. Alex's book, Grow the Pie: How Great Companies Deliver Both Purpose and Profit, was a Financial Times Book of the Year and has been translated into nine languages, and he is a co-author of Principles of Corporate Finance (with Brealey, Myers, and Allen). He is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences. His latest book, May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases – And What We Can Do About It comes out in April 2024.
When you approach a table where you are going to sit with a group of people, which chair do you take? This episode begins with a strategy to choose the best seat at the table whether it's round or square – 4 chairs or 6 or 8. https://lifehacker.com/always-choose-the-best-seat-at-any-multi-person-table-5990596 Despite your best efforts not to - you have certain biases that you cannot escape. And these biases affect how you think, the decisions you make and the actions you take. So, it might be good to understand what these biases are and how they affect you. Here to explain this is Alex Edmans, professor of finance at London Business School whose TED talk "What to Trust in a Post-Truth World" https://www.ted.com/talks/alex_edmans_what_to_trust_in_a_post_truth_world has been viewed two million times. Alex is author of the book, May Contain Lies: How Stories, Statistics, and Studies Exploit Our Biases―And What We Can Do About It (https://amzn.to/3vprIz3). Most of us probably wish we had a little more mental toughness. When you think of elite athletes or Navy SEALs, these people are able to focus with laser-like precision, ignore distractions and act fearlessly. Who couldn't use a little more of that?. Here to explain how it works is Eric Potterat. He is a clinical and performance psychologist and retired commander from the US Navy. During his tenure with the navy, he helped create the mental toughness curriculum used during Navy SEALs training. Eric is author of the book Learned Excellence: Mental Disciplines for Leading and Winning from the World's Top Performers (https://amzn.to/3TV4Qka). Toothpicks are handy and seemingly harmless little pieces of wood. But in truth, they are can also be trouble. In fact, they can be dangerous. When you listen you may just decide to use a fork instead. https://acedentaloftexas.com/why-are-toothpicks-a-danger-for-your-oral-health PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! Indeed is offering SYSK listeners a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING NerdWallet lets you compare top travel credit cards side-by-side to maximize your spending! Compare & find smarter credit cards, savings accounts, & more https://NerdWallet.com TurboTax Experts make all your moves count — filing with 100% accuracy and getting your max refund, guaranteed! See guarantee details at https://TurboTax.com/Guarantees Dell Technologies and Intel are pushing what technology can do, so great ideas can happen! Find out how to bring your ideas to life at https://Dell.com/WelcomeToNow eBay Motors has 122 million parts for your #1 ride-or-die, to make sure it stays running smoothly. Keep your ride alive at https://eBayMotors.com Listen to TED Talks Daily https://www.ted.com/about/programs-initiatives/ted-talks/ted-talks-daily Wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices