
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.
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.”
Offering A Hand
“Our hands bear the marks of our lives—scars from building, protecting, and loving. As we focus on thinking and talking, we often forget the power of doing. Maybe it’s time to use our hands more, to create, to help, and to make a difference. Let your scars be the reminders that you lived fully and impacted others.”
Don’t Look Back
“Like chameleons, humans have a unique ability to look forward and backward at the same time—yet, this mental skill often traps us in the past. To truly grow, we must deliberately choose imagination over memory, embracing new ideas rather than clinging to outdated traditions.”
What Do You Mean?
“Claude Shannon’s Information Theory revolutionized communication by prioritizing speed and efficiency over meaning. As our digital world accelerates, are we losing clarity and depth in our interactions? Discover how the rapid transmission of information might be stripping away the very essence of our messages.”
Learning To Read Maps
“GPS may have made navigation easier, but it also took away our ability to chart our own course. Remember the days of unfolding a map and figuring out your path? Let’s reclaim that mindset—mark your own spot, choose your own route, and take the time to navigate your life’s journey on your terms.”
Why Yvon Chouinard’s decision to give away his company shouldn’t surprise you.
“Patagonia’s unwavering commitment to environmental values over profit transformed it into a global leader. By prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices, the company built a loyal customer base, reshaped industries, and proved that businesses can thrive while staying true to their mission.”
It’s Not About The Music (How to create a 50-year fan base)
“Bruce Springsteen built lasting loyalty by connecting personally with fans, creating unforgettable moments that made them feel seen and valued. From sharing a baloney sandwich to dedicating songs, his genuine recognition fueled his legendary career and community.”
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.