INSIGHTS
Table of Contents
Writing
James offers a scientific perspective—rooted in physics, chemistry, biology, and neurology—to explain the trends and events that are reshaping businesses, economies, societies, and cultures. His insights help leaders in the commercial, public, and social sectors develop a deeper understanding of the cognitive connections that are profoundly impacting every aspect of their organizations, their communities, and the planet we share.
The Cost of Silence
History shows us two paths: resilience or compliance. Today’s leaders must choose wisely, for only the courageous will shape the future.
Building Resilience Amid Constant Change: Practical Strategies for Thriving in Uncertain Times
Stress and anxiety are unavoidable in today’s world. “Stress inoculation” offers a proactive approach, encouraging us to face challenges head-on in small doses to build resilience and thrive amid uncertainty.
The Commoditization of Everything
Today, social media influencers and private equity firms profit from everything, including people’s lives. What was once limited to celebrities is now everyone’s reality, with over 50 million creators exploiting personal stories for revenue. As commoditization reshapes our world, true adaptation means defending life’s meaningful values—not succumbing to profit-driven forces.
Your Climate Change
Just as natural disasters warn of an urgent need to adapt, the shifting landscape of technology, social dynamics, and employee expectations signals a critical moment for organizations. Leaders must reimagine their approach to the future of work to thrive in this rapidly changing world.
The Collapse of Trust: How Divided Realities Tear Worlds Apart
In a time of clashing beliefs and fragile facts, trust isn’t a universal standard—it’s built on shared values and expectations. Understanding why trust is eroding is the first step toward rebuilding stronger, more aligned connections.
The Missing Step in Teaching: Why Unlearning Matters Most
Before we can embrace new ideas, we must first unlearn the old ones. This essay explores why unlearning is essential for effective teaching, coaching, and development—and how understanding the brain’s resistance to change can help guide lasting growth.
Beyond AI: Preparing for the Next Wave of Disruptive Technologies
AI is just the beginning. Prepare for the next wave of disruptive technologies—quantum computing, biotech, and more—that will redefine industries and challenge the status quo.
Humans Don’t Get Stuck.We Are Stuck.
We tell ourselves stories of progress, but what if we’re more stuck than we realize? Our brains crave stability, locking us into routines and preventing growth. Breaking free requires intention—only then can we truly evolve and thrive.
Authentic Connections: Moving Past Charisma to Genuine Engagement
“Leadership isn’t about dazzling on stage—it’s about connecting, collaborating, and inspiring in your own unique way. Discover why true leadership comes in many forms, and why the quiet strength of effective communication often goes unnoticed.”
What Cancer Taught Me About AI
“My battle with cancer revealed AI’s potential and its dangers. Explore how our reliance on AI must be balanced with human creativity and collaboration to truly transcend our limitations.”
Are You Trying To Sell Paper Cups?
“True innovation often lies in seeing what others overlook. Discover how a paper cup salesman’s simple observation at a Walgreens in 1930 led to the birth of the take-out industry and forever changed the world of business.”
Black Sails
“Signals deliver information, but they don’t deliver meaning. The ancient tale of Aegeus and Theseus reminds us how easily misunderstandings can arise when we rush to interpret signals without considering other possibilities. In today’s world, this lesson is more relevant than ever.”
Dance Lessons
“Leadership and followership are a dance, requiring balance and shared responsibilities. Discover why it’s crucial for influencers to offer more than just sentiments and for followers to demand more than just words. True leadership and meaningful followership require action and accountability.”
May The Van De Waals Force Be With You
“Ever wonder how geckos and ladybugs defy gravity? The Van der Waals force is their secret—and a perfect metaphor for building strong yet flexible relationships. Discover why ‘sticky’ connections are powerful, but being ‘stuck’ is never the goal.”
You Will Be A Different Person After Reading This
“Our brains are constantly changing, transforming us into different versions of ourselves over time. My friend didn’t meet the love of his life four times; he experienced four different loves in four different lives. Discover how our ever-evolving neural connections shape who we are and the lives we live.”
Snow Globe Physics
“Snow globes hold a surprising lesson: when life turns upside down, and chaos scatters everything you know, finding equilibrium happens faster when you bond with others. Discover how snow globe physics offers profound insight into resilience and recovery.”
The Monsters Among Us
“Monsters used to hide in the shadows, but today they thrive in plain sight, fueled by our indifference. As real-life terrors outpace Hollywood’s imagination, it’s time we reconsider how to fight back against the modern-day ghouls wreaking havoc in our world.”
Stars
“While stars captivate our imagination, it’s the forgotten electrons—those that never became stars—that create the breathtaking auroras. As our culture idolizes celebrities, we should remember that remarkable brilliance often comes from the overlooked and underestimated. Give them space, and watch them shine.”
The Birds & The Bees Revisited
“Collaboration can be challenging, but nature offers a lesson in ‘pollen dosing.’ By strategically limiting central resources, you can encourage a more connected, collaborative network where people must rely on each other for success—just like bees and flowers.”
Drifting Away
“The moon is slowly drifting away, a poignant reminder that clinging to the past can hold us back. As we say goodbye, let’s embrace the future with curiosity and courage, building on what we’ve learned to explore new horizons.”
Videos
You Can’t Handle The Truth
When it comes to relationships, being honest is more important than being nice.
You Aren’t Who You Were Yesterday
The ever-changing human mind shapes our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, influencing how we navigate the world each day.
Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.
Are you and your organization ready to guarantee your products and services? Can you truly deliver on the promises you make?
Nature’s First Strategy
Nature’s winning strategy is simple: life thrives when it sustains itself, optimizes energy, and grows. When it can’t, it fades. Humans flourish by following the same blueprint.
Our education and development are built on learning and acquiring new information. But unlearning old information is just as important.
Unlearning
Understanding one’s value is about more than recognizing their current abilities. It’s also envisioning the greatness they’re capable of achieving.
Seeing Potential
You don’t always need to do great things yourself. Sometimes, your greatest achievement is bringing together those who can.
Matchmakers
Our brain is naturally inclined to take the easy route, favoring routines and avoiding challenges. To achieve success, we must deliberately activate curiosity, creativity, and optimism—because they won’t spark on their own.
Static Thinkers
Myths & Mythmakers
Coming Soon.