About this podcast

This episode of the Huberman Lab podcast features Dr. Maya Shankar, a distinguished cognitive scientist and former White House advisor. Dr. Shankar delves into the fascinating science behind how our identities are formed, evolve, and can be redefined, particularly after life-altering events. Drawing from her own experience as a former aspiring concert violinist who faced a career-ending injury, she explains how beliefs and internal narratives shape our self-perception. The discussion provides a comprehensive toolkit for structured introspection, aligning personal values with goals, and maintaining motivation. Listeners will learn science-based strategies to effectively define and pursue goals, cope with uncertainty, and foster personal growth in the face of change. This episode offers a practical roadmap for assessing and transforming your identity and aspirations.