The Cabrera Lab podcast

#Science #Society #Podcasting Education #Drs Derek And Laura Cabrera #Drs Derek #Laura Cabrera

33:06

Our guest this week is Romesh Rangathan! And his subgenre is… BRB Crying. Will Romesh deliver a beautiful and moving film pitch that makes Jimmy break down crying? Or will his idea be a fever dream of orangutans, ancient curses and having sex in front of animals? Listen in to find out! Listen on all podcast platforms and watch on the Netflix is a Joke YouTube Channel. The Big Pitch is a co-production by Netflix and BBC Studios Audio. Jimmy Carr is an award-winning stand-up comedian and writer, touring his brand-new show JIMMY CARR: LAUGHS FUNNY throughout the USA from May to November this year, as well as across the UK and Europe, before hitting Australia and New Zealand in early 2026. All info and tickets for the tour are available at JIMMYCARR.COM Production Coordinator: Becky Carewe-Jeffries Production Manager: Mabel Finnegan-Wright Editor: Stuart Reid Producer: Pete Strauss Executive Producer: Richard Morris Executive Producers for Netflix: Kathryn Huyghue, Erica Brady, and David Markowitz Set Design: Helen Coyston Studios: Tower Bridge Studios Make Up: Kit Hall Cameras: Daniel Spencer Sound: Charlie Emery Branding: Tim Lane Photography: James Hole Images supplied via Getty Images…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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Join Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera from Cornell University as they inspire you to approach life's challenges with a fresh perspective. Witness their use of GOAT-level thinking to enhance your problem-solving skills. Discover new possibilities, approaches, and solutions you never knew existed. Elevate your thinking and get better every day with their entertaining guidance.

65 епізодів

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

updated 6 днів тому

Поширити

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65 епізодів

#Science #Society #Podcasting Education #Drs Derek And Laura Cabrera #Drs Derek #Laura Cabrera

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The Cabrera Lab Podcast

1
#71: Think Better, Live Better—Why Systems Thinking Isn’t Just for Work 32:48

6 днів тому32:48

32:48

In 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 you how systems thinking isn’t just for strategy meetings—it’s for life.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#69: Overthinking, Adaptability, and the Fast-and-Right Mindset 32:36

13 днів тому32:36

32:36

In 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, and mentally sharp.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#68: The Grammar of Reality 43:31

20 днів тому43:31

43:31

In 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 well.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#67: The Beginner’s Guide to Systems Thinking (In Under 20 Minutes) 19:34

27 днів тому19:34

19:34

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 clearly, this episode is your on-ramp.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#66: There's Nothing More Practical Than a Good Theory 37:37

5 weeks тому37:37

37:37

In 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 scientific truth. If you’ve ever said, “That’s just a theory,” this episode will change how you think.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#64: Stop Taking It Personally—Why Meaning Gets Lost in Translation 36:38

6 weeks тому36:38

36:38

In 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.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#63: The Simple Formula Behind Every Thought 27:04

7 weeks тому27:04

27:04

In 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 must-listen.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#62: Echo Chambers, Fake News, and the Collapse of Credibility 39:43

8 weeks тому39:43

39:43

In 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.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#61: From Outward Bound to AI—Lessons in Raising Thinkers, Not Robots 44:07

9 weeks тому44:07

44:07

In 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 strategy.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#60: Beyond the Couch: DSRP Therapy for a New Mental Model 40:16

10 weeks тому40:16

40:16

In 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.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#58: Stop Solving Problems—Start Understanding Systems 24:14

11 weeks тому24:14

24:14

In 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 bigger picture.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#57: Connect the Dots—Why Root Cause Thinking Isn’t Enough 29:52

12 weeks тому29:52

29:52

In 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 shootings, or societal polarization. If you're tired of oversimplified answers to complex problems, this episode is your roadmap to thinking more clearly and solving more effectively.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#56: The Whole Is NOT Greater Than Its Parts (Here’s Why) 28:36

13 weeks тому28:36

28:36

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 system lies in the micro, not the macro. If you’ve ever been confused by emergence—or mesmerized by outcomes—this episode will change the way you see systems forever.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#55: Don’t Trust, Verify—How to Separate Your Thoughts from Your Feelings 44:37

14 weeks тому44:37

44:37

Feeling 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 found yourself getting worked up over headlines, social media fights, or personal conflicts, this episode will give you real strategies to regain control, think more clearly, and respond with intention instead of emotion. Don't trust—verify.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#53: The Emperor Has No Clothes: Exposing the Truth About Systems Thinking 47:48

15 weeks тому47:48

47:48

Everyone 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 empirical truth. If you’re tired of vague definitions, academic gatekeeping, and empty buzzwords, this episode will set the record straight. Prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about systems thinking.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#52: Critical Thinking is Biased Thinking 53:50

16 weeks тому53:50

53:50

Critical 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 it doesn’t), and how to engage in real, productive discourse. If you’ve ever found yourself in a frustrating debate, this episode will give you the tools to think sharper and argue better.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#51: The #1 Indicator of Real Intelligence (It’s Not What You Expect) 31:18

17 weeks тому31:18

31:18

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 for life.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#50: Slapping “Systems” on It Doesn’t work—How to Think Systemically for Real 32:31

18 weeks тому32:31

32:31

Just 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 thinking systemically.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#48: The Ultimate Playbook for Building a Winning Culture 43:23

19 weeks тому43:23

43:23

Your 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 success. BLOG ON CULTURE MARKETING: https://blog.cabreraresearch.org/culturemarketing CBG POSTER: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZxdR2boLn0ThGrUMxuZ7j4seI4fERtIZ/view?usp=sharing…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#47: How to Build an Adaptive Learning Organization That Thinks and Grows 36:50

20 weeks тому36:50

36:50

If 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 learning, this episode will give you the blueprint for getting your organization thinking, growing, and evolving—every single day.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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Episode #46: Capacity is King: Build Systems That Actually Work 39:10

21 weeks тому39:10

39:10

Is 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 through creating a cohesive, effective framework for achieving your goals.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#45: Why Most Mission Statements Fail (And How to Do Yours Right) 40:58

22 weeks тому40:58

40:58

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 rethinking an outdated mission, this episode will help you create a statement that inspires action and makes an impact.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#43: Why Your Organization’s Vision Sucks (and How to Fix It) 45:09

23 weeks тому45:09

45:09

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 with the tools to develop a vision that sparks action and delivers results.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#42: Systems Leadership: The Secret to Thriving Organizations 41:19

24 weeks тому41:19

41:19

In 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 playbook? Tune in and transform your organization.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#41: Start the New Year Like a Systems Thinker 44:19

25 weeks тому44:19

44:19

Forget 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 systems thinking edge.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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Episode #40: A Systems Thinker's Guide to a 'Perfect' Holiday 31:46

26 weeks тому31:46

31:46

The 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 lists, or your own expectations, this episode is your gift for a calmer, happier holiday. 🎄✨…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#39: Stop Guessing: The Secret to Measuring and Improving Your Thinking 45:44

27 weeks тому45:44

45:44

Can 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 episode will give you the tools to measure your thinking—and take it to the next level.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#38: The 8 Biggest Mistakes In Systems Thinking 49:52

28 weeks тому49:52

49:52

Think 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.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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#37: Rethinking Network Theory with DSRP 48:14

29 weeks тому48:14

48:14

In 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 expert, this episode equips you with the tools to see, understand, and influence networks like never before.…

The Cabrera Lab Podcast

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Episode #36: Getting Started in Systems Thinking: Become A Better Thinker in Less Than 1 Minute 57:01

30 weeks тому57:01