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

The Rich Roll Podcast

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!


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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!


Show notes + MORE

Watch on YouTube

Newsletter Sign-Up


Today’s Sponsors:

Go Brewing: Use the code Rich Roll for 15% OFF👉🏼https://www.gobrewing.com


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


Rivian: Electric vehicles that keep the world adventurous forever👉🏼https://www.rivian.com


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


Check out all of the amazing discounts from our Sponsors👉🏼https://www.richroll.com/sponsors 


Find out more about Voicing Change Media at https://www.voicingchange.media and follow us @voicingchange

2026-01-15 126 min
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