Dr. Maya Shankar is a cognitive scientist, host of the podcast “A Slight Change of Plans,” and author of “The Other Side of Change.”
This conversation explores the challenge of navigating involuntary change, whether it's injury, loss, or a future that suddenly collapses. We discuss identity and attachment, the illusion of control, why our brains resist uncertainty, the end of history illusion, rumination, and practical tools to help us see change not as a burden—but as a revelation.
Maya also opens up about her own identity crises, a career-ending injury at 15, and later pregnancy losses that forced her to confront who she was beyond her deepest aspirations.
Change is coming for all of us, whether we like it or not. Maya's goal is to give you the companion you need along the way. Enjoy!

<a href="https://bit.ly/richroll961">Show notes + MORE</a>
<a href="https://bit.ly/MayaShankar961">Watch on YouTube</a>
<a href="https://www.richroll.com/subscribe/">Newsletter Sign-Up</a>

Today’s Sponsors:
Go Brewing: Use the code Rich Roll for 15% OFF👉🏼<a href="https://www.gobrewing.com">https://www.gobrewing.com</a>

AG1: Get their best offer ever – Welcome Kit, Omega 3's, D3+K2, Flavor Sampler, plus AGZ sleep supplement FREE ($126 in gifts)👉🏼<a href="https://www.drinkag1.com/richroll">https://www.drinkAG1.com/richroll</a>

Rivian: Electric vehicles that keep the world adventurous forever👉🏼<a href="https://www.rivian.com">https://www.rivian.com</a>

WHOOP: The all-new WHOOP 5.0 is here! Get your first month FREE👉🏼<a href="https://www.join.whoop.com/Roll">https://www.join.whoop.com/Roll	</a>

Check out all of the amazing discounts from our Sponsors👉🏼<a href="https://www.richroll.com/sponsors">https://www.richroll.com/sponsors</a> 
Find out more about Voicing Change Media at <a href="https://www.voicingchange.media">https://www.voicingchange.media</a> and follow us<a href="https://www.instagram.com/voicingchange/"> @voicingchange</a>

Podurama

Home

Trending

Personal

Your Podcasts

New Episodes

My Files

Favourite Episodes

Tags (Folders)

Recently Played

Bookmarks

Followed Playlists

Cognitive Scientist Maya Shankar On Navigating Unexpected Life Changes, The Neuroscience Of Identity, & How To Unlock Your Next Self

The Rich Roll Podcast

AI Chapters

AI Insights

Reviews