Best Flow Research Collective Podcasts (2025)

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Flow in the AI Age: Your Last Human Advantage 1:30:03

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16h ago1:30:03

1:30:03

AI is moving faster than most of us can comprehend. But what if our edge isn’t in outthinking machines—but in outflowing them? In this episode, Steven Kotler sits down with two of the sharpest minds shaping our technological future: Peter Diamandis, founder of the XPRIZE and a pioneer of exponential thinking, and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Of…

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Executive Functioning and Leadership Clarity with Frankie Berkoben 23:18

19d ago23:18

23:18

In this episode of The Experimental Leader Podcast, hosts Melanie Parish and Mel Rutherford are joined by executive coach and ADHD expert Frankie Berkoben to explore how executive functioning and systems thinking can elevate leadership performance. Frankie shares her unique approach to coaching high-performing leaders in tech—drawing from design th…

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Gut Instinct, Hard Science: The New Neuroscience of Intuition 1:01:20

1M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

What if your gut instinct was more than a hunch? What if it was your brain’s first navigation system—designed to reduce uncertainty, minimize surprise, and keep you alive? In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler and neuroscientist Dr. Michael Mannino crack open the black box of intuition. Along with co-authors Karl Friston, György Buzsáki, J.A…

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Authentic Leadership: LGBTQ+ Insights on Inclusivity and Impact with Dr. Liz Cavallaro 28:43

1M ago28:43

28:43

In this Pride Month episode of The Experimental Leader Podcast, hosts Mel Rutherford and Melanie Parish are joined by Dr. Liz Cavallaro, executive coach and author of Forging Queer Leaders. Together, they explore how LGBTQ+ leaders leverage resilience, authenticity, and inclusivity to drive impactful leadership. Packed with actionable insights on a…

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DIY and the Flow Code: How Punk Culture Built the Startup World 38:44

2M ago38:44

38:44

What do DIY entrepreneurship, peak performance, and punk rock have in common? Everything. In this live Flow Radio episode, recorded at Summit at Sea 2024, New York Times bestselling author and FRC Executive Director Steven Kotler joins fashion icon John Varvatos to trace the rebel spirit from CBGB’s to Silicon Valley. Together, they map how the kid…

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ICF Week 2025: Coaching Experiments with Leah Kedar & Robin Goodbary 35:49

3M ago35:49

35:49

Celebrate International Coaching Week 2025 with this insightful episode exploring coaching’s evolving role in leadership. From AI advancements to maintaining a pure coaching mindset, this conversation offers practical tips, powerful questions, and valuable insights into how coaching fosters transformation, innovation, and shared leadership. Whether…

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Validating Product-Market Fit: A Strategic Approach 12:18

3M ago12:18

12:18

Achieving Product-Market Fit (PMF) is often seen as the golden ticket to success. But how do you know when you've truly found it? This article delves into the strategic approach to validating PMF, moving beyond gut feelings and into quantifiable metrics. We'll explore how to gauge user sentiment, define your value proposition, and identify your ide…

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Flow vs. the Victim Mindset: Trade Blame for Breakthroughs 1:02:43

3M ago1:02:43

1:02:43

No one is coming to save you—but staying stuck isn’t the only option. Steven Kotler and Ryan Wickes welcome back Columbia professor and humanistic psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman—author of the just-released Rise Above, and one of today’s leading voices on human potential. Kaufman joins to unpack the victim mindset, the neurobiology of agency, …

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Five Years of Experimentation: A Conversation with Melanie Parish 16:22

3M ago16:22

16:22

Celebrate a remarkable milestone with The Experimental Leader Podcast as we mark five years of exploring leadership through innovation, curiosity, and authenticity. In this special anniversary episode, podcast founder Melanie Parish reflects on the journey that started during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Melanie shares candid insights i…

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From Guesswork To Security: My Data-Driven Product Design Playbook 16:05

3M ago16:05

16:05

In a landscape where intuition often reigns supreme, transitioning to a data-driven approach in product design can unlock untapped potential and foster innovation. This playbook delves into the essential strategies and methodologies that empower designers to base decisions on real-world data rather than mere guesswork. By harnessing analytics and u…

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The Creative Leader’s Playbook 56:20

4M ago56:20

56:20

Creativity isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a survival skill. In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler sits down with artist, designer, and serial entrepreneur Jody Levy for a conversation on how intuition, constraint, and ritual unlock creativity—and why all three are non-negotiables for high-performance leadership. They trace Jody’s path through ex…

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User Flow Optimization: Simplifying User Journeys To Increase Conversions And Engagement 14:19

4M ago14:19

14:19

We review the design of user flow optimization, revealing strategies and insights to streamline users' online interactions with a product. By breaking down the complexity of user journeys, we aim to provide actionable steps that can be implemented to improve an application's UX, ultimately leading to heightened conversions and user engagement.…

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Flow vs. the Machine: AI, Creativity & the Next Human Renaissance 2:14:42

4M ago2:14:42

2:14:42

What happens when AI takes center stage—and humans still want to create? Steven Kotler returns to Peter Diamandis’s Moonshots to unpack the forces shaping our future: AI, abundance, creativity, and how flow fuels the human advantage. Drawing on three decades at the bleeding edge of peak performance, they explore what it takes to thrive in a world a…

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Unlocking Operational Excellence with Tara Landes 30:29

4M ago30:29

30:29

This episode of The Experimental Leader explores leadership challenges, the power of experimentation, and ethical influence. Discover principles like bravery, reciprocity, and consistency, along with actionable insights to foster purpose-driven leadership and a values-aligned culture.

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A/B Testing + Experimentation: Rapidly Design UI To Gather Feedback And Avoid Designing In The Dark 10:27

4M ago10:27

10:27

Discover how A/B testing and rapid experimentation form the cornerstone of effective UI design. By swiftly building and iterating interfaces, we gather crucial user feedback from the outset, ensuring that we never design in the dark. Lean into our latest episode to understand the power of data-driven strategies that fuel scalable and efficient solu…

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Collecting Real User Research For Product Success, Justifying Design Updates 13:40

5M ago13:40

13:40

In this episode, you'll get an exclusive glimpse into our data-driven approach that swiftly empowers startups to turn their ideas into reality. I'll delve into the proven process I've implemented for previous clients and present a completed case study where we prioritized quality and speed, guided by valuable user feedback. Read on as I unveil the …

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Leadership Through Connection with Jaime Mann 23:35

5M ago23:35

23:35

This episode explores the power of connection in leadership, emphasizing the importance of civility, respect, and understanding impact. Through real-life stories and practical strategies, it highlights how a coaching approach can simplify leadership by focusing on outcomes and relationships rather than conflict details. Discover how fostering curio…

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How I Helped A Local AgTech Client Design Their HMI From Zero To A $35M Funding Round 12:17

5M ago12:17

12:17

I'm proud to have successfully collaborated with an NC client in the AgTech sector, delivering a customized Human/Machine Interface (HMI) that contributed significantly to their recent Series B funding round, which closed at over $35 million. My HMI design, noted for its accessibility and scalability, was well-received by stakeholders and operators…

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Rapid Prototyping From Concept To MVP 16:47

6M ago16:47

16:47

In the fast-paced world of product development, the ability to quickly validate ideas is crucial. This article outlines my streamlined prototyping process for developing minimal viable products (MVPs) that can effectively gauge customer interest and refine problem-solution fit.By Will Breen

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The Next Step Won't Kill You: Flow Lessons from the Iron Cowboy 1:11:30

6M ago1:11:30

1:11:30

What happens when you reach such extreme states of pain that you start having out-of-body experiences? Join us for a fascinating conversation with James Lawrence (aka the Iron Cowboy) about redefining human limits, managing pain through flow states, and what happens when you push beyond what doctors claim is impossible. James shares his raw truth a…

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Leveraging AI in Design as a Foundational Guide Toward Early Validation 14:54

6M ago14:54

14:54

Integrating AI tools in design isn't just a trend—it's a fundamental shift in approaching early-stage product design and validation. As a designer working with startups, I've discovered effective ways to leverage AI tools that help founders validate their concepts quickly and efficiently without compromising design quality or breaking the bank. The…

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Confidence and Mental Wellness in Leadership with Pat Broe 28:47

7M ago28:47

28:47

In this episode of The Experimental Leader, we explore how leaders can balance empathy and accountability while supporting mental wellness in the workplace. We discuss practical strategies for creating a compassionate and resilient environment for teams, navigating mental health challenges, and leading with authenticity. Packed with actionable take…

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Going to Market With Customers: Beyond the Launch 10:51

7M ago10:51

10:51

Product launches aren't finish lines – they're milestones in an ongoing journey of customer-centric development. In this last article of my 0->1 process, I'll share my approach to launching products with continuous customer involvement, ensuring that the momentum of earlier design phases carries forward into a successful market presence. ‍…

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Flow Radio Special: You Have Peak Performance Questions. We Have Answers. Safety Not Guaranteed. 1:02:50

7M ago1:02:50

1:02:50

Flow—your brain's gateway drug to the infinite game. How far could you push your performance if you knew exactly what your brain was capable of? In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Steven Kotler and Dr. Michael Mannino answer questions from people around the world who use their work to unlock more flow. They share mind-bending insights about "…

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Fostering Belonging Through Leadership with Marie Deveaux 29:15

8M ago29:15

29:15

In this episode of The Experimental Leader, we explore how self-awareness, compassion, and effective communication can transform workplaces into cultures of belonging. Discover practical strategies to foster deeper connections, nurture work relationships, and create environments where people thrive. Learn how intentional leadership can make belongi…

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From Reality to Interface: Best Practices for Intuitive Digital Experiences 13:32

8M ago13:32

13:32

In an increasingly digital world, the importance of creating accessible designs has never been more critical. This article explores the intersection of digital experiences and real-world interactions, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in design practices. By understanding user needs and leveraging effective strategies, designers can enhance usab…

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Afterthoughts: Flow—The Gateway Drug to Infinite Possibility 58:17

8M ago58:17

58:17

Flow—your brain's gateway drug to the infinite game. In this episode of Afterthoughts, Steven Kotler reveals how flow states unlock doors to possibilities we never knew existed. Joined by neuroscientist Dr. Michael Mannino and host Ryan Wickes, the team explores how flow can revolutionize aging. Building on Steven's conversation with Modern Elder A…

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Navigating Public Affairs and Storytelling with Julianna Newland 21:45

8M ago21:45

21:45

Julianna Newland joins The Experimental Leader Podcast to share insights on navigating leadership, breaking barriers, and advancing careers. Learn about the "sticky floor," the "glass cliff," and how to lead with creativity and confidence. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here’s How »…

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Refining the Problem and Solution: Turning Validation into Action 11:39

9M ago11:39

11:39

After validating the initial concept through prototyping, I enter a crucial phase in my design process: refining the problem and potential solution. This stage is all about leveraging the insights gained from customer validation to ensure that the features I'm designing truly align with the customer's ideal outcome. It's a data-driven approach that…

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The Superpowers of Longevity 38:23

9M ago38:23

38:23

Think performance peaks when you're "young"? Think again. Research shows you can unlock a surprising set of superpowers as you age. In this episode of Flow Radio, peak performance expert Steven Kotler sits down with Chip Conley to explore how older minds excel at pattern recognition, complex problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. You'll learn…

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7-Day HMI Design Sprinting Process For Fast and Successful Outcomes 18:37

9M ago18:37

18:37

Today, I share my innovative 7-Day HMI Design Sprint process, uniquely crafted to accelerate HMI projects from idea to prototype with remarkable efficiency and creativity. This condensed methodology merges the best design thinking with agile development, ensuring renewable energy startups can tackle complex Human-Machine Interface (HMI) challenges …

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Afterthoughts: How Art and AI Unlock Human Potential 47:39

9M ago47:39

47:39

Believe the hype—art can transform your life.In this episode of Flow Radio, hosts Steven Kotler, Dr. Michael Mannino, and Ryan Wickes explore the powerful connections between creativity, longevity, and the future of human-AI collaboration. Tune in for a fresh look at how an “aesthetic mindset” influences aging, cognitive health, and the amount of f…

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Why do we design with assumptions rather than data 22:20

9M ago22:20

22:20

In the constantly evolving landscape of design, the battle between data-driven decisions and intuitive assumption-based design is ongoing. In this podcast, I will delve into why numerous companies, stakeholders, and "designers" frequently become enamored with their initial product vision, often at the expense of user needs. Additionally, I will exp…

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Driving Business Success Through DEI with Shirley Engelmeier 31:27

9M ago31:27

31:27

In this episode, the conversation dives into how diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) can be a game-changer for business success! Discover why DEI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful strategy that can ignite innovation, boost engagement, and elevate performance. You’ll get fresh insights on how to create a workplace where every voice matters, a…

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Art and Flow: The Neuroaesthetics Revolution 51:02

10M ago51:02

51:02

In this episode of Flow Radio, Steven Kotler and Dr. Michael Mannino sit down with Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross, co-authors of Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us. These groundbreaking experts explain how making and experiencing art changes the way we think, feel, and perform. From our ancient past to cutting-edge science, find out why art …

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How Agile HMI Design Accelerates User-Centered Business Operations 21:12

10M ago21:12

21:12

Agile methodologies stand out as a beacon for developers and designers aiming to enhance human-machine interaction (HMI) in the rapidly evolving world of product design. Today, I go into the essence of Agile HMI design, illustrating its pivotal role in transforming ideas into user-centric products swiftly and efficiently. I explore how breaking tra…

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Revitalizing the Fabrication Industry with Non-Traditional Tech 15:02

10M ago15:02

15:02

In a time of swift technological progress, manufacturing is on the brink of a groundbreaking transformation. This piece explores my collaboration with the CN-Seamless team in implementing innovative technological solutions. I provide detailed insights into my design approach and how I contributed to CN-Seamless's product launch strategy. Concluding…

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Afterthoughts: The Neurobiology of Breath and Emotion 47:51

10M ago47:51

47:51

In this Afterthoughts episode of Flow Radio, hosts Ryan Wickes, Steven Kotler, and Dr. Michael Mannino revisit their recent conversation with Dr. Jack Feldman, diving deeper into the neuroscience of breathing and its impact on peak performance. Building on Dr. Feldman's groundbreaking research, the hosts explore: The surprising links between breath…

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UI as a Competitive Advantage Aligning Branding with HMI Design 8:20

11M ago8:20

8:20

Our latest episode delves into the strategic integration of branding with HMI, illuminating how this synergy fortifies branding and operational efficacy. Discover how our approach accelerates scalability and refines user experience without sacrificing quality. Get ready to transform your HMI into an unparalleled asset; read below for actionable ins…

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Navigating Gender Diversity with Dr. Lulu 27:19

11M ago27:19

27:19

In this episode of The Experimental Leader, we sit down with a powerful guest who shares their journey of navigating gender diversity and embracing vulnerability as a leader. From raising a trans child to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, this episode offers personal insights into creating inclusive environments and the importance of allyship. Whether …

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Breathwork and Flow: How Breathing Prepares the Brain and Body for Peak Performance 59:20

11M ago59:20

59:20

In this episode of Flow Radio, we explore the intricate science of breathing with Dr. Jack Feldman, a world-renowned neuroscientist. Dr. Feldman, a professor at UCLA, has spent decades uncovering the secrets of how our brains control this vital function. His pioneering research has led to groundbreaking discoveries, such as identifying and naming a…

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The Cost Of Bad UX Its Impact On The Bottom Line 10:28

11M ago10:28

10:28

In the competitive landscape of renewable energy startups, seamless Human/Machine Interfaces (HMI) cannot be overstated. In this podcast, I'll showcase how poor user experience can negatively affect business outcomes. I'll also further present why a data-driven, strategic approach to HMI development is critical for operational efficiency and custom…

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Building Better Workplaces Through Kind Leadership with Christy Pretzinger 30:01

11M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of The Experimental Leader Podcast, we explore the power of leading with kindness and how it can transform workplace culture. Discover the concept of a "cultural balance sheet" to assess your organization’s strengths and areas for growth, and learn how to turn cultural liabilities into assets through intentional leadership. If you'r…

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Flow's Frequencies: What Brain Scans Tell Us About Creativity with Dr. John Kounios 45:16

12M ago45:16

45:16

In this episode of Flow Radio, we dive deep into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, creativity, and flow states. In his recent paper in Neuropsychologia, Dr. John Kounios and his team explored the neural mechanisms of creative flow during jazz improvisation. To indulge your curiosity for full-fledged geekery, Dr. Kounios, bestselling aut…

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Sustainable UI Design: Implementing eco-friendly principles in your HMI project 13:05

12M ago13:05

13:05

In today's digital age, the environmental impact of technology has become a topic of increasing concern. Sustainable UI design stands at the forefront of innovative solutions, bridging the gap between environmental responsibility and digital development. In today's article, I dive deep into the realm of green practices within Human-Machine Interfac…

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Leading Change: Effective Decision-Making and Team Involvement 16:29

1y ago16:29

16:29

In this insightful episode of The Experimental Leader, explore the dynamic world of leadership, decision-making, and change management. Dive into the complexities of experimenting with change management strategies on an academic campus, offering a fresh perspective on leadership styles across various settings. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review…

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Can Caffeine Boost Flow States? 1:07:22

1y ago1:07:22

1:07:22

Can a cup of coffee do more than wake you up? In this episode of Flow Radio, host Ryan Wickes from the Flow Research Collective explores the effects of caffeine on flow states. Joined by Dr. Michael Mannino, Chief Science Officer, and Dr. Niklas Reich, neuroscientist and high-performance coach, they discuss how caffeine can increase the likelihood …

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Unleashing Flow in Business with Chip Conley 47:13

1y ago47:13

47:13

In this episode of Flow Radio, we dive deep into the intersection of positive psychology and business with the legendary hotelier and entrepreneur Chip Conley. Chip shares his journey from founding Joie de Vivre Hospitality to becoming the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy for Airbnb and his creation of the Modern Elder Academy. Discover how …

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Radical Inclusivity 23:54

1y ago23:54

23:54

Explore the importance of honoring marginalized perspectives, challenging implicit biases, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Learn how engaging with diverse political views and listening to differing opinions can lead to more robust solutions and a deeper understanding. Discover actionable steps to overcome biases, promote diversity in …

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Building a High-Flow Culture: Insights from Team Exos and Steven Kotler 54:10

1y ago54:10

54:10

Data from Gallup reveals disengaged employees cost the economy an estimated $1.9 trillion in lost productivity last year. Improving well-being is crucial but challenging. This is where flow states come in, overhauling mental health and positively impacting leadership and team dynamics. Creating a high-flow organization relies on culture as much as …