In this premiere episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Erica Simon shares how design thinking's "bias to action" can transform our approach to personal and professional growth. Through her work at Stanford's d.school and beyond, Dr. Simon reveals practical strategies for breaking free from perfectionism and overthinking to create environments that actually support well-being. Whether you're feeling stuck in your career, battling imposter syndrome, or trying to make a break-through in your personal growth, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on moving from insight to action.

Episode Highlights

• Understanding the difference between languishing and flourishing, and practical steps to move from one to the other
• How design thinking principles can be applied to personal well-being and career development
• Navigating imposter syndrome and self-doubt in academic and tech environments
• Why imposter syndrome affects female leaders more than men, and other gender gaps in career-related behaviors
• The role of "bias to action" in personal growth and why "failing forward" isn't really failing

Music: "Good Times" by Tommy Welton

Resources Mentioned

• Start With Why by Simon Sinek
• Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
• "More Isn't Always Better" - HBR, The Jam Experiment
• "Diversity, Stereotypes, and Intersectionality" - Margaret Shih, UCLA
• "Male and Female Entrepreneurs Get Asked Different Questions by VCs" HBR, Funding Gap Research

About Dr. Erica Simon

Dr. Simon has spent over 15 years working in healthcare and workplace settings, addressing the anxiety, stress, and burnout endemic to modern culture. Find her on: LinkedIn, Seriesbe.co (her Workplace Wellbeing website), or her Private Practice website.

Get in Touch

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Deep Thoughts with Michelle Handy explores the intersections of behavioral science, tech, and design through engaging conversations with thought leaders. Whether you're building products, leading teams, or navigating your own career journey, each episode delivers practical insights to inspire personal growth and drive innovation.