Shows
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#77: Why the World Needs 8 Billion Systems Thinkers (Above the Standard)In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down their updated vision for global transformation: not just 8 billion systems thinkers—but 8 billion above the standard.They unpack the science behind mental fitness, the difference between awareness and practice, and how changing your default thinking patterns can unlock faster, smarter decisions. You’ll learn why IQ and degrees don’t equal intelligence, why you are the system, and how practicing six simple thinking moves can permanently rewire your brain.If you want to lead better, live better, and help change the world—this epi...2025-07-2335 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#76: Why You Keep Attracting the Same People, Jobs, and ProblemsIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack a deceptively simple idea that has massive implications: never leave a place—only go to a place. What started as a personal insight turned into a powerful life rule that breaks the cycle of self-sabotage and repeating patterns.They explore how seeing patterns—not just events—gives you the power to change your life, why externalities and baggage follow you when you don't deal with them, and how turning hard-earned lessons into rules creates real wisdom. Whether it’s relationships, jobs, or cities, this episode will hel...2025-07-1622 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#74: The 12 Gets: Simple, Scientific Rules for a Life That WorksIn this inspiring episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reveal the 12 Gets—a simple, science-backed system that helped Derek shed 130 pounds, reverse pre-diabetes, and reclaim his life.Born from a sabbatical of deep systems thinking and personal transformation, the 12 Gets offer a blueprint for health, longevity, and mental fitness. From “Get Moving” to “Get Smart” to “Get Challenged,” each “Get” is both accessible and adaptable—no gimmicks, just real strategies that work.Whether you're starting from zero or leveling up your routine, this episode gives you the tools to build a life that’s strong, clear...2025-07-0940 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#73: Earn Your Own Trust—The Real Power of IntegrityIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack one of the most misunderstood (and underrated) skills: integrity. It’s not just about being a “good person”—it’s about alignment between what you say and what you do.They explore why integrity starts as a relationship with yourself, how overpromising wrecks trust, and how to build integrity through purposeful practice. If you've ever struggled to keep commitments (especially to yourself), this episode shows you how to train integrity like a muscle—and why it's the foundation for every healthy relationship, personal or professional.2025-07-0227 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#72: How High Performers Really Manage Their Time, Energy & MindsFeeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take on the everyday challenge of self-management—breaking it down into 3 essential tools: structure, rules, and distributed intelligence.From taming your to-do list and calendar chaos to creating space for flow, they share how systems thinking helps high performers (and the rest of us) build mental fitness, stay focused, and stop spinning in circles. Whether you’re neurodivergent or just drowning in deadlines, this episode delivers actionable strategies, personal stories, and real tools to help you win the day—every day.2025-06-2544 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#71: Think Better, Live Better—Why Systems Thinking Isn’t Just for WorkIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack what they call the “arsenal”—a core set of mental moves that bridge the gap between your professional life and your personal growth.They explore how tools like the RDS Barbell, distinctions, and perspective-taking can radically improve your communication, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. You'll learn why everything is personal, how agency is the key to freedom, and why metacognition is the superpower that changes everything.Whether you’re trying to set better boundaries, parent with more empathy, or lead more effectively, this episode shows yo...2025-06-1832 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#69: Overthinking, Adaptability, and the Fast-and-Right MindsetIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack how systems thinking helps you handle life’s toughest changes—before they happen. They share a 4-step process for adapting in real time: build mental fitness, love reality, test your mental model, and adapt fast.You’ll learn why we mistake stress and emotion for “overthinking,” how System 3 thinking gets it fast and right, and why practice—not panic—is what makes you truly ready. Whether you’re navigating a layoff, a life shift, or just everyday chaos, this episode shows you how to stay clear, grounded...2025-06-1132 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#68: The Grammar of RealityIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University explore the central thesis of their paper, The Grammar of Reality: that both nature and thought are governed by the same four structural patterns—Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives (DSRP).They explain why nothing in the universe is static, why your mental models shape your experience of reality, and how understanding the underlying “grammar” of both the mind and nature unlocks profound clarity, agency, and awe. From glaciers to firestorms, from Maggie the dog to quantum weirdness—this episode redefines what it means to think clearly and live...2025-06-0443 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#67: The Beginner’s Guide to Systems Thinking (In Under 20 Minutes)In this clear and beginner-friendly episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down the who, what, why, where, when, and how of systems thinking. Spoiler: the “who” is everyone—because if you’re human, you live and work in systems every day.They explain what systems thinking really is (hint: it’s simpler than you think), why it helps you adapt and thrive, and how to get started using tools like the TQ, the 6 thinking moves, and the powerful Love Reality Loop. Whether you’re a kindergartener, a CEO, or just someone trying to think more c...2025-05-2819 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#66: There's Nothing More Practical Than a Good TheoryIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down one of the biggest misconceptions in both science and everyday life: the false divide between theory and practice. They explain what theory really means (hint: it’s not your opinion about your dog), how science differs from academia, and why a well-tested theory is the most practical tool you’ll ever use.They also explore why complex topics like systems thinking tend to attract more opinions than evidence, why academic writing often feels impenetrable, and how translational research bridges the gap between real-world problems and...2025-05-2137 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#64: Stop Taking It Personally—Why Meaning Gets Lost in TranslationIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University explore why so many of our arguments and misunderstandings come from mismatched mental models. They break down why we react emotionally to words, why assumptions fuel conflict, and how asking simple questions like “What do you mean?” can defuse tension.You’ll also hear why blame and credit are lazy shortcuts, how to rethink “being literal,” and why tuning into reality is one of the most liberating things you can do. If you’re ready to communicate with less drama and more clarity, this episode is your guide.2025-05-1436 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#63: The Simple Formula Behind Every ThoughtIn this eye-opening episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down their powerful formula for meaning: M = IO (meaning equals information plus organization). Using playful examples—like coffee drinks, cocktails, and skincare—they show how the same underlying structures drive innovation, communication, and even conflict.You’ll learn how most arguments stem from mismatched mental models, why seeing the structure behind things unlocks creativity, and how this mindset shift can help you solve problems faster, connect better, and see life in 3D. If you’re ready to level up your thinking, this one’s a...2025-05-0727 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#62: Echo Chambers, Fake News, and the Collapse of CredibilityIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down how echo chambers form, why circular citation networks trick us into believing falsehoods, and how critical systems like science and media are losing public trust.They explain why truthiness matters, why science isn’t the same as academia, and how you can protect yourself by questioning, diversifying your sources, and thinking in gradients—not binaries. If you’re tired of feeling confused and manipulated, this episode gives you the mindset tools to break free.2025-04-3039 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#61: From Outward Bound to AI—Lessons in Raising Thinkers, Not RobotsIn this powerful episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reflect on parenting through the lens of DSRP, character development, and a world reshaped by AI. They unpack the difference between giving your kids answers and teaching them to think—between raising performers and building whole humans.With stories from the mountains, the classroom, and their own kitchen table, this episode explores how to guide kids toward independence, metacognition, and a future full of unknowns. If you’re a parent, teacher, or anyone who works with young minds, this one is equal parts heart and stra...2025-04-2344 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#60: Beyond the Couch: DSRP Therapy for a New Mental ModelIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University introduce DSRP Therapy, a systems-based approach that helps people understand, surface, and revise their mental models—at the root of emotion, behavior, and personal change.They walk through how DSRP compares to traditional therapies like CBT, and explain why getting your thoughts “out on the table” and testing them against reality builds more self-awareness, resilience, and long-term growth. If you’ve ever wanted a thinking-based approach to healing and personal clarity, this one’s a must-listen.2025-04-1640 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#58: Stop Solving Problems—Start Understanding SystemsIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University flip the script on one of the most accepted habits in work and life: problem-solving. They explain why jumping straight to solutions is actually a bias—one that blinds us to what’s really happening in the system.With stories, metaphors, and practical insights, they unpack how most “problems” are actually just feedback—and why understanding the system is always more powerful than solving the surface issue. If you’re tired of putting out fires, this episode will help you step back, zoom out, and finally see the bigg...2025-04-0924 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#57: Connect the Dots—Why Root Cause Thinking Isn’t EnoughIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University dive deep into the theme of their upcoming conference—Connect the Dots—and challenge the outdated idea of “root cause” thinking. Instead, they break down how real-world problems emerge from webs of causality, where multiple, interacting factors must be addressed simultaneously to get results.They explain why trying one solution at a time fails, how to use systems thinking tools like zooming, part/whole, and relationship mapping, and why seeing the whole system is the only way to make lasting change—whether it’s in sleep, school shoot...2025-04-0229 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#56: The Whole Is NOT Greater Than Its Parts (Here’s Why)In this special podcast-iversary episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University celebrate one year of the Cabrera Lab Podcast by taking a flamethrower to one of systems thinking’s most stubborn myths: “The whole is greater than its parts.”They dive deep into the real meaning of emergence, why complexity science is not about magic or mysticism, and how all the intelligence in a system actually comes from simple rules and relationships—not some vague “greater than” force.From ant colonies to clowns and kangaroos, this episode explains why the most powerful part of any syste...2025-03-2628 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#55: Don’t Trust, Verify—How to Separate Your Thoughts from Your FeelingsFeeling overwhelmed? Frustrated? Like the world is just too much? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down the critical difference between thinking and feeling—and why confusing the two can lead to unnecessary stress, poor decisions, and pointless arguments.They’ll teach you how to untangle your emotions from your thoughts, avoid reacting impulsively, and use the RAR Quad move to create a critical pause before acting. Plus, they take on the news, social media, and emotional manipulation, showing you how to separate truth from clickbait.If you’ve ever f...2025-03-1944 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#53: The Emperor Has No Clothes: Exposing the Truth About Systems ThinkingEveryone talks about systems thinking, but does anyone actually know what it is? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University dive into the messy reality behind the term, exposing why so many so-called “systems thinking” frameworks lack any real scientific backing. They discuss why most frameworks are nothing more than untested opinions, how academia has confused the public, and what real systems thinking actually looks like.This episode also pulls back the curtain on the peer review process, the difference between academia and real science, and why so many ideas get mistaken for empi...2025-03-1247 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#52: Critical Thinking is Biased ThinkingCritical thinking gets thrown around as the gold standard of thinking—but is it really? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down why critical thinking is actually an antiquated form of thought, useful in some situations but totally inadequate in others.Sparked by a social media post that stirred up controversy, they unpack the onslaught of illogical arguments, red herrings, and ad hominem attacks they received—and use them as a case study in how not to argue. Learn what makes an argument fair and ethical, when critical thinking works (and when...2025-03-0553 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#51: The #1 Indicator of Real Intelligence (It’s Not What You Expect)What does it really mean to be smart? Spoiler: it’s not your IQ score, your degrees, or your job title. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down the truth about intelligence—why being smart is less about what you know and more about how well you adapt to an ever-changing world.They’ll explore how true intelligence is about seeing patterns, making connections, and adjusting your thinking in real-time. Want to be the smartest person in the room? Forget memorization—learn how to sharpen your adaptability and level up your thinking...2025-02-2631 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#50: Slapping “Systems” on It Doesn’t work—How to Think Systemically for RealJust because something has the word systems in it doesn’t mean it’s actually systemic thinking. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University expose how disciplines from business to biology love to throw around the term “systems” without actually applying systems thinking—and why that’s a problem.They’ll break down what real systemic thinking looks like, how to tell the difference between surface-level jargon and true systems thinking, and what we can do to fix this mess. Get ready for a fun, no-BS look at how to stop pretending and start really t...2025-02-1932 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#48: The Ultimate Playbook for Building a Winning CultureYour organization has a culture—whether you designed it or not. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down how to take control of your organizational culture using culture marketing and the culture building graph to shape a thriving, high-performance environment.Learn actionable strategies to get everyone in your organization on board, reinforce the right behaviors, and avoid the pitfalls that weaken culture over time. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing culture, this episode will give you the tools to build a culture that sticks, scales, and drives succ...2025-02-1243 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#47: How to Build an Adaptive Learning Organization That Thinks and GrowsIf your organization isn’t learning, it’s dying. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University explore the power of organizational learning—why it’s the backbone of a thriving culture, how to foster it, and the key litmus tests to ensure your team is actually growing, not just going through the motions.They’ll break down why the best leaders never stop learning and how to create an environment where curiosity, adaptation, and improvement are the norm. Whether you're leading a company, a team, or just looking to level up your approach to learnin...2025-02-0536 minThe Cabrera Lab PodcastEpisode #46: Capacity is King: Build Systems That Actually WorkIs your organization running on systems—or just spinning its wheels? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University dive into the concept of organizational capacity: the systems that power your mission statement and ultimately, your vision. They explain why a system of systems is the key to efficiency, adaptability, and long-term success—far superior to a disconnected "bunch of systems".Learn how to design capacity systems that align with your mission, pass crucial litmus tests, and amplify your organization’s impact. Whether you’re starting fresh or optimizing existing systems, this episode will walk you...2025-01-2939 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#45: Why Most Mission Statements Fail (And How to Do Yours Right)Does your organization’s mission statement actually mean something, or is it just corporate fluff? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University break down the true purpose of a mission statement, how it differs from vision, and why so many organizations get it wrong.They’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to craft a mission statement that’s clear, actionable, and aligned with your organization’s goals. Plus, they’ll share key litmus tests to ensure your mission doesn’t just sound good—it drives real results. Whether you’re starting from scratch or rethi...2025-01-2240 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#43: Why Your Organization’s Vision Sucks (and How to Fix It)What’s your organization’s vision—and is it really driving you forward? In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University demystify vision statements, explaining what it is (and what it’s not), why it often gets confused with mission, and how to craft a clear, actionable vision that inspires and aligns your team.They’ll walk you through a step-by-step process for creating your own vision and share practical litmus tests to ensure it’s both meaningful and effective. Whether you’re leading a startup, a nonprofit, or a Fortune 500 company, this episode will equip you...2025-01-1545 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#42: Systems Leadership: The Secret to Thriving OrganizationsIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack the critical difference between outdated leadership models and systems leadership. They explain why organizations are more like flocks—dynamic, adaptive, and interdependent—than clocks with rigid, mechanical structures.Learn why traditional approaches like planning, commanding, controlling, and hyper-utilization don’t just fail—they actively prevent your organization from adapting and thriving in complex environments. Through practical insights and real-world examples, they’ll show you how systems leadership fosters agility, resilience, and the kind of results that rigid systems can only dream of. Ready to ditch the old pl...2025-01-0841 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#41: Start the New Year Like a Systems ThinkerForget the usual “new year, new you” clichés. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University dive into how a systems thinker sets New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions have become a hedge for intentional self-improvement. What if instead we just made ourselves a little bit better everyday? And because no episode is complete without a little mind-bending fun, they take a fascinating tangent into the concept of free will—and how nobody has it. Listen as they prove that there is no free will, just localized choice. Start your year with clarity, curiosity, and a syst...2025-01-0144 minThe Cabrera Lab PodcastEpisode #40: A Systems Thinker's Guide to a 'Perfect' HolidayThe holidays can be magical—but they can also be downright stressful. In this special holiday episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University share their top strategies for staying sane during the season. Learn how to challenge your mental models about family, expectations, and traditions to create a more meaningful and less stressful holiday experience.They’ll show you the power of “loving reality” as it is, not as you wish it to be, and why saying the “crazy part” out loud can defuse tension and spark connection. Whether you’re navigating tricky family dynamics, endless to-do...2024-12-2531 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#39: Stop Guessing: The Secret to Measuring and Improving Your ThinkingCan you measure thinking? Absolutely—and it might just be the most powerful tool you’re not using. In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera break down how we can measure the quality of our thinking and why doing so is a game-changer for personal growth, leadership, and decision-making.They dive into the importance of measuring what truly matters, showing how clear metrics for thinking can help you identify blind spots, sharpen your mind, and get better results in every area of life. If you’re serious about improving yourself, your work, and your impact, this episod...2024-12-1845 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#38: The 8 Biggest Mistakes In Systems ThinkingThink you know systems thinking? Think again. In this hard-hitting episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take on the 8 biggest myths—those sacred cows everyone gets wrong—and crush them with straight-up truth and practical fixes.From the fluff to the fumbles, they’ll show you what’s holding you back and give you no-nonsense replacements to level up your thinking game. If you want to cut through the BS and master real systems thinking, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.2024-12-1149 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#37: Rethinking Network Theory with DSRPIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take you on a journey from the basics of network theory to explaining why understanding networks is critical for making sense of the world. They explore how DSRP theory—Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives—does more than complement network theory; it transforms how we understand nodes and the dynamics of connections.With practical examples and clear explanations, they’ll show you why network theory matters in your personal and professional life and how DSRP makes it accessible, actionable, and infinitely more powerful. Whether you're a beginner or an...2024-12-0448 minThe Cabrera Lab PodcastEpisode #36: Getting Started in Systems Thinking: Become A Better Thinker in Less Than 1 MinuteIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University, lay out a clear, no-nonsense protocol for practicing systems thinking and DSRP (Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, Perspectives) in under one minute. Perfect for busy people looking to sharpen their mental game, this quick, practical approach will immediately improve the way you think about problems, people, and possibilities.Learn how to apply this simple method anytime, anywhere—at work, at home, or in conversation. By mastering this one-minute practice, you'll unlock the mental edge to tackle complexity, make smarter decisions, and stand out as the guy who always se...2024-11-2757 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#35: Reclaiming Learning: Breaking Free from the Education SystemIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take a hard look at the dissatisfaction with the education system and why it’s failing teachers, parents, administrators, and especially students. They explore how to separate the concept of schooling from true learning, inspiring a lifelong love for discovery and self-improvement.Beyond personal growth, they share an urgent call to action: how can we give educators and students the tools and support they desperately need to thrive? Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or someone hungry to learn, this episode will ignite your passion for cr...2024-11-201h 04The Cabrera Lab Podcast#34: Hearing Beyond Words: Uncovering the Hidden Structure in Everyday ConversationsIn this week’s episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reveal the powerful skill of "hearing the underlying structure" in common phrases, giving you a deeper edge in every interaction. By tuning into these hidden layers, you’ll start to pick up on subtle cues that go beyond words—allowing you to truly understand what others are saying and where they’re coming from. Whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, this episode equips you to decode conversations and be a sharper, more effective communicator.2024-11-1342 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#33: Unlock Peak Performance: 5 Daily Moves to Become More AdaptiveUnlock peak mental performance and tackle any challenge with confidence! This episode arms you with five actionable moves to make you more adaptive in every aspect of life. Learn how to spot patterns faster and understand complex systems effortlessly. Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reveal daily practices that will transform you into an intellectual powerhouse. If you're ambitious and ready to be at the top of your game, these essential thinking tools are your new secret weapon.2024-11-0653 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#32: Kick the BucketIn this week’s episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera dive deep into the world of thinking and explain why you should be very afraid of "buckets"—those rigid mental boxes that can limit your potential and stunt your intellectual growth. They break down the components of DSRP (Distinctions, Systems, Relationships, and Perspectives) and show how isolating them from each other has serious consequences for the way you understand, interpret, and act in the world. By learning to make your thinking dynamic—flexible, adaptable, and always evolving—you’ll gain an edge in your journey to be the sharpest mind in an...2024-10-3045 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#31: Context is LazyIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera take on context. Learn why context is part of a lazy person's conversational toolkit, understand the nuances of context, and finally learn how to use context in a fair and intelligent way. Doing so will help you understand the system far better than everyone else and be the smartest person in the room. Listen now! 2024-10-2337 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#31: Context is LazyIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera take on context. Learn why context is part of a lazy person's conversational toolkit, understand the nuances of context, and finally learn how to use context in a fair and intelligent way. Doing so will help you understand the system far better than everyone else and be the smartest person in the room. Listen now! 2024-10-2338 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#30: All About View-Point PerspectivesIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera share all they've learned from their empirical research on view-point Perspectives. Listen now to hear about how everything from babies to atoms take perspectives, how their research increased cognitive complexity in just one minute, and how to improved your problem solving skills with just one systems thinking move: P-Circle. They teach you that move and the groundbreaking research behind it's effectiveness. Listen now to improve your thinking by over 400% (yes, really)! 2024-10-161h 14The Cabrera Lab Podcast#29: All About Action-Reaction RelationshipsIn this week's episode, learn all about Action-Reaction Relationships with Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera. They share their research findings, and the two moves you need to practice to dramatically increase how many relationships you make and how accurate they are. These moves allow you to dive deeper, make more connections, increase the speed and efficacy of your thinking, and truly understand the problems you need to solve. Listen now!2024-10-091h 10The Cabrera Lab Podcast#28: All About Part-Whole SystemsIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera share all they've learned from their empirical research on part-whole systems. Listen now to hear about how they achieved far transfer learning in young children, increased cognitive complexity, and improved people's problem solving skills with just one systems thinking move: Zoom In/Out. They teach you that move and the groundbreaking research behind it's effectiveness. Listen now to improve your thinking by over 250% (yes, really)! 2024-10-021h 06The Cabrera Lab Podcast#27: All About Identity-Other DistinctionsIn this week's episode, learn all about Identity-Other Distinctions with Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera. They share their research findings, and the one move you need to practice to dramatically increase your Distinction-making skill. This move allows you to reduce your biases, increase both the speed and efficacy of your thinking, and stop yourself and your team from making costly mistakes BEFORE they happen. Listen now!2024-09-251h 01The Cabrera Lab Podcast#26: Lessons from the MountainsIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera take you on a journey through their recent offsite in the Italian Alps. Discover firsthand how they harness the power of nature to teach profound lessons in systems thinking. From conquering personal fears to pushing boundaries, they reveal the transformative impact of challenging oneself amidst the giants of the Alps. Join us as we uncover why the mountains serve as the ultimate classroom for embracing reality and fostering resilience. Listen now! 2024-09-181h 01The Cabrera Lab Podcast#25: The Path to BuenoIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera show us all The Path to Bueno. This path takes us from all the things that makes our lives No Bueno (bad relationships, unfulfilling jobs, etc.) to being Bueno. How do they do this? They teach us how to use the Love Reality Loop and the 5+ Thinking Moves. Listen now and go from No Bueno to Bueno. 2024-09-1133 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#24: Avoid the NormIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera delve into the power of breaking away from societal norms and embracing being exceptional. Join them as they explore the value of forging your own path in a world that often favors conformity. Whether you're navigating career choices, personal growth, or seeking to redefine success on your terms, this episode offers insights and strategies tailored for those who dare to defy the ordinary. Get inspired and tune in now!2024-09-0437 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#23: Do You Know What It Feels Like To Be Wrong?In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss the all too common situation of being the only person who is right in a room full of people. However, is that really what is happening to you? Explore the idea that everything (and everyone) is wrong. All the time. Listen now!2024-08-2833 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#22: The Inner Battle of MaskingIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera get deep and talk about the ins and outs of masking. What is the impact of masking on the neurodivergent mind? Why don't they just stop masking? Is it a secret superpower? Find out all this and more and listen now!2024-08-2146 min
Steve Barkley Ponders Out LoudCoaching That Explores a Web of CausalityThe term "web of causality" refers to a conceptual framework used to understand the interconnected and complex relationships among various factors that contribute to a particular outcome. The term "web" emphasizes that causes tend not to be linear or singular but are instead interwoven. How do coaches encourage multi-valent thinking that acknowledges the complexity of situations, considering multiple perspectives and factors rather than bivalent thinking that simplifies issues into two opposing categories, which can be efficient but may miss important nuances?
Read "3 Ways to More 'Aha Moments in Coaching" here.
Check out The Cabrera Lab...2024-08-1514 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#21: Navigating the Paradox of LifeIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera explain the great paradox of life: everything you do matters, and nothing you do matters. How is this possible? Can two opposites be true at once? What does this advice mean for the young people of the world? Find out all this and more when you listen today!2024-08-1436 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#20: Break Your Habits and Dig DeeperIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera teach you how to break habits. Get rid of your unhealthy or unsavory habits, and dive deeper into your own mind than ever before. With the powers of UpThinking, you can take control of your mind and your life. Listen now! 2024-08-0746 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#19: Coke vs Pepsi, the Two Party System, and Forced ChoicesIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss the forced binaries we all experience in everyday society. They demonstrate why these competitions are manufactured between Coke and Pepsi and Democrats and Republicans. Who does it benefit? Why is this line of thinking so popular? Listen now to find out all this and more. 2024-07-3136 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#18: Relationships Sponsored By The Number 3In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera explore interpersonal relationships. Their method (Relationships Sponsored By The Number 3) transforms the way you will think about your relationships with your spouse, your children, your colleagues, and anyone else you may meet in your life. Grab a refrigerator box and listen now!2024-07-2442 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#17: Are You In Charge Of Your Feelings?In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss the nuances of emotions, taking things personally, how to get some agency back in your life, and the difference between thinking and feeling. 2024-07-1751 minThe Cabrera Lab Podcast#16: Your Phone Is Using YouIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera tackle technology addition. Listen to hear all about the people behind the phones, how they want you to become addicted, and how to help your children (and yourselves) break free of the cycle. 2024-07-1028 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#15: July 4th Special: A More Perfect UnionIn this week's special July 4th episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take on complexity, the emoji syndicate, the rules of ant life, complex adaptive systems, and why it all means that we have to protect the simple rules of the US Constitution. Happy listening! 2024-07-0349 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#14: Neurodiversity: Disorder or Difference?In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera delve into neurodiversity. Speaking from personal experience, they talk about what it is like to be neurodiverse, whether the word 'disorder' is an accurate description of the different types of neurodiversity, and how discovering DSRP saved his life. 2024-06-2659 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#13: How Do We Know What Is Real?In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera answer viewer Michelle's question: How do we know what is real? The answer may surprise you... 2024-06-1937 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#12: The Myth(?) of Work/Life BalanceIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera talk about work/life balance. How can you balance work and life? Should there even be a balance? What if the whole idea of work/life balance is built on faulty mental models? Tune in to find out!2024-06-1233 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#11: Grit, Resilience, and AntifragilityIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera dive into the difference between grit, resilience, and antifragility. Using stories and lessons from Derek's time as an Outward Bound instructor, they get to the bottom of this distinction. 2024-06-0540 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#10: Mindsets, Ethics, and Lichens, Oh My!In this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss how to move from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset. They also tackle ethics and how ethics are actually born of both mind and nature, which leads them to a concluding discussion on how the brain is symbiotic, just like lichens. Listen now!2024-05-2958 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#9: Thinking Critically About Critical ThinkingIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera tackle critical thinking. They explore what it means to critically think about something, and if it is always the best way to approach a problem. Additionally, they discuss how critical thinking as a whole, is just a bias. Listen now to learn more!2024-05-2241 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#8: The War on GoopIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss what goop means, why you should be aware of it, and what you can do to avoid the gauntlet of goop. 2024-05-1530 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#7: Overthinking: It's NOT a ThingIn this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss the issue of overthinking. More specifically, how there's no such thing as overthinking. Instead, we are underthinking. 2024-05-0832 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#6: Heal Your Self: How to get over something you can’t get overIn this emotional episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera speak on healing from childhood trauma, what it truly means to be an 'adult,' and how to get over something you just can't seem to get over. 2024-05-0138 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#5: Rethinking EducationIn this week's episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera rethink the education system while sharing stories from their own personal educational experiences...2024-04-2450 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#4: Practice Makes ProgressDrs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss the power of practice, how thinking can be practiced just like anything else, and how dinner time led to being on the cutting edge of cognitive practice. 2024-04-1747 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#3: Is TQ The New IQ?In this week's episode, Derek and Laura talk about the IQ test, where it's lacking, and how the TQ is a more accurate and better replacement. 2024-04-1034 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#2: Love RealityThe Drs. Cabrera discuss what it means to love reality, why you should love reality, and the high cost of ignoring reality. 2024-04-0338 min
The Cabrera Lab Podcast#1: You Don't Have Time Not To Think!In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera discuss what UpThinking is, how to do it, how to measure it, and why we care about thinking so much in the first place.2024-03-2747 min
MYNDDCASTMYNDDCAST Moment, The Purpose of a System is What it DoesWe all want to believe our organization’s desired purpose matches what we’re actually achieving. But…is that the case? Join me as I share a simple activity I learned from my mentors and friends, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera. The Cabreras describe the activity of recasting your organizational purpose to gain insights into where systems changes … Continue reading MYNDDCAST Moment, The Purpose of a System is What it Does2019-10-0707 min