Explore every episode of the podcast The Cabrera Lab Podcast

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take a rapid-fire tour through some of the most famous systems thinking quotes from legends like Donella Meadows, Peter Senge, Russell Ackoff, W. Edwards Deming, and even the Buddha.

Laura reads each quote, and Derek rates them 1–10 on validity, reliability, and usefulness—revealing which ideas stand up to science and which ones fall apart under scrutiny. From “Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets” (spoiler: a 10) to “Reality is made up of circles, but we see straight lines” (not so much), this episode separates truth from myth with humor, depth, and a bit of friendly roasting.

If you’ve ever wondered which systems thinking ideas actually hold up—and which just sound smart—this one’s for you.

In this Think It Through episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University tackle two everyday problems that reveal the hidden power of systems thinking. They start by breaking down why theory and practice are never truly separate, showing how real solutions emerge when people think structurally—whether they’re leading teams or navigating family life.

Using a 7% market growth challenge as a case study, they introduce a powerful move called P Gen S Drop P—a simple way to align marketing, sales, and operations around a shared mental model instead of competing perspectives. Then, they apply the same logic to a deeply relatable family conflict between two sisters stuck in a feedback loop of stress and unhealthy habits.

From corporate strategy to personal relationships, this episode proves one thing: when you stop debating perspectives and start diagramming systems, you can see the real structure beneath every problem—and finally solve it.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University help a listener untangle a familiar problem: saying yes to everything and ending up exhausted, resentful, and burned out.

They diagram the hidden mental model behind overcommitment—a self-made loop of guilt, fear, and misplaced responsibility—and show how systems thinking can break it. You’ll learn how to set real boundaries without guilt, stop assuming what others think of you, and reclaim your time and energy.

From the “2x4 Guy” (you’ll get it) to emotional intelligence and the Rar Quad, this episode offers practical, mindset-shifting tools to help you stop reacting and start acting with purpose.

In this practical episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University show how the same underlying mental structures shape both family life and organizational culture.

From a frustrated parent arguing with a teen about driving to a CEO dealing with conflicting rules in the workplace, the problem isn’t people—it’s the invisible mental models guiding their behavior. Using simple systems thinking tools, they break down how to surface, compare, and rebuild shared mental models that actually work.

You’ll learn how to stop having the same argument twice, fix cultural contradictions, and see the structure beneath every problem—at home, at work, and everywhere in between.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University take a wrecking ball to the confusion surrounding systems thinking. Whether you’re brand new to the field or knee-deep in its many (often conflicting) methodologies, this episode will save you years of frustration by cutting straight to the core: what systems thinking is, what it’s not, and how to actually get good at it.

They reveal why most systems thinking resources are either snake oil or rabbit holes, and why practicing the Six Moves is more powerful than reading 50 books. You’ll learn the difference between systems science, systems methods, and systems thinking—and why that difference matters. They also explain why being smart isn’t about IQ or degrees, but about aligning with reality. And yes, simplicity isn’t just okay—it’s essential.

Forget the jargon, skip the cocktail-party credentials, and learn how to actually do systems thinking in real life. This episode is your shortcut to the good stuff.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University answer a simple but urgent question from a parent: “Can you teach systems thinking to kids?” Spoiler: not only can you, you should—and it may be the most important thing you ever do.

They break down why kids are actually better systems thinkers than adults (fewer bad habits), how to teach the Six Moves in everyday life (with groceries, frogs, or even sugar packets), and why teaching the structure of thought—not just information—is the holy grail of learning.

You’ll also learn about the four kinds of transfer (the secret to real understanding), how to use verbal, visual, and tactile tools to teach any age, and why systems thinking skills are a child’s best defense against misinformation, manipulation, and the modern world.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or just someone who cares about the next generation—this episode will show you how to start early, think clearly, and raise resilient thinkers.

How do two people work together, parent together, and live together every day without driving each other nuts?

In this personal and powerful episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University share the six systems thinking principles that transformed their relationship—and how you can apply them to yours. They break down the practical tools that help them avoid blame, navigate patterns, embrace honesty, and understand each other better using DSRP and the Love-Reality Loop.

Whether you're in a marriage, parenting teens, or just want deeper connections in your life, this episode gives you real-world insights, tools, and hope. Because relationships aren’t supposed to be hard—they’re just supposed to be systems.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University confront a hard truth: our schools are failing because we're teaching information, not thinking.

They expose the real problem behind education’s struggles—what they call the tyranny of “Content is King”—and make the case for O-based education: teaching students how to organize information and build mental models, not just memorize facts.

From the over-management of teachers to the manipulation of public mental models by industries, they trace how systemic issues in education ripple out into every corner of society—health, finance, citizenship, and beyond. The solution? Systems thinking, metacognition, and daily practice of mental moves that empower students for a lifetime of learning, not just test-taking.

If you're a parent, teacher, or human who wants to fix the system, this episode will shift your perspective—and maybe your path.

In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University challenge the binary of Kahneman’s System 1 (fast but often wrong) and System 2 (slow but usually right) thinking—and introduce a third way: System 3 Thinking.

System 3 is both fast and accurate. But it doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built through metacognition and daily practice. Drawing on research and real-world examples from special forces, pro athletes, and high performers, they show you how the Six Moves and the Love-Reality Loop can rewire your brain, boost adaptivity, and dramatically improve your results.

This episode doesn’t just teach a concept—it gives you a proven path to becoming a better, faster, smarter thinker. If you’re tired of overthinking, underperforming, or just reacting—this is the mental upgrade you’ve been waiting for.

In this final chapter of the Culture Code series, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University share the last 12 guiding principles that shape their team's character, cohesion, and capacity to adapt. These aren’t just nice ideas—they’re lived systems of belief and behavior.

You’ll explore ideas like Carhartts & Cufflinks (being comfortable anywhere), Extreme Ownership, No Discipline = No Freedom, Underpromise & Overdeliver, and the golden rule: The Way You Do Anything Is the Way You Do Everything. This episode is packed with personal stories, practical applications, and deep reflections on how culture is something you build through practice—not posters.

Whether you're leading a company, team, or yourself, this episode is a masterclass in turning values into actions and building the kind of culture that lasts.

In this next installment of the Culture Code series, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University reveal the next 9 culture principles that guide their team, their leadership, and their lives. These aren’t corporate slogans—these are lived mental models rooted in systems thinking, science, and character development.

They unpack what it means to Get the GETs, be Vitruvian, Make Monergy, and practice Better Every Day. You’ll hear why Being Your Own GOAT matters more than fitting in, how to Eat Your Own Dog Food (a.k.a. live what you teach), and why Micro Makes the Macro is the secret to scaling vision into action.

If you want to design a culture that grows real people—not just roles—this episode is your toolkit.

In the follow-up to Episode #79, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University continue walking through their organization’s Culture Code—a set of shared values and mental models that drive everything from personal growth to organizational excellence.

This time, they explore seven powerful principles: Love Reality, Find Your Fit, Serve Others, Be Vulnerable, Have Integrity, Be Courageous, and Do the Right Thing. With raw personal stories, practical examples, and plenty of humor, they show how these daily practices aren't just good for culture—they're good for character.

If you want to build a life (and team) grounded in truth, trust, and strength—this episode is your blueprint.

In this new episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University unpack the first six principles in their organization’s Culture Code—a practical, modular set of mental models that shape character, guide behavior, and build real culture from the inside out.

You’ll learn why culture isn’t about surface-level swag, but shared mental models; how to truly listen (with more than just your ears); and why systems thinkers must practice curiosity, evolution, and presence—every single day. These six principles—Team First, See Systems, Listen, Evolve, Be a Light, and Be Curious—are the building blocks of a high-integrity, high-performance life.

If you’ve ever wondered how to align personal growth with professional excellence, this is where to start.

In this special “IRL” (in real life) episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University sit down with a parent struggling to navigate one of the most common and emotionally charged family issues: what kids eat.

Their guest, "John," opens up about his 8-year-old daughter’s ultra-processed diet, his fear for her long-term health, and how dinner has turned into a battleground. Through systems thinking, they reframe the issue—not as a fight to win tonight, but as a long game of building agency, values, and critical thinking.

If you’ve ever felt powerless at the dinner table—or in any parenting dilemma—this episode shows how systems thinking can turn fear into strategy and frustration into hope.

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 episode lays out the roadmap.

In 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 help you stop running and start transforming.

In 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, and deeply lived.

GET THE BOOK: https://www.stsi.pro/product-page/connect-the-dots-book-pre-order-now

In 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.

Feeling 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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. 🎄✨

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.

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.

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.

In 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 sees the big picture.

In 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 creating a better future—inside and outside the classroom.