Why do we trust complete strangers? How can leaders build emotionally resilient teams without micromanaging? And what role does oxytocin really play in the workplace?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Paul Zak - a leading behavioural neuroscientist, four-time tech founder, and author of Immersion: The Science of Extraordinary and the Source of Happiness.

Together, we explore the science of trust, emotional fitness, and the simple, powerful behaviours that help leaders create connected, high-performing cultures.

Paul shares eye-opening insights from two decades of research (and some very memorable stories), including:

• Why trust drives business outcomes - and how to measure it without drawing blood
• What high-trust cultures actually look like, and why hierarchy often stands in the way
• The surprising link between oxytocin, empathy, and everyday leadership behaviours
• How emotional fitness fuels performance, and how Paul’s free app SIX can help you track it
• Why being vulnerable at work isn’t just brave — it’s strategic

If you’re a leader navigating complexity, juggling competing demands, or looking for more meaning in your work, this episode offers a fresh, evidence-backed perspective on what really matters.

Resources and links mentioned:

• Download Paul’s free emotional fitness app: SIX
• Explore the science behind Immersion: getimmersion.com
• Visit Paul’s research lab: neuroeconomicstudies.org
• Paul’s upcoming book The Little Book of Happiness — out May 6

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