Tony Biglan and Alison Szarko sit down with Steve Hayes, a Foundation Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno and a co-originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the broader Relational Frame Theory. (www.stevenchayes.com)

In this episode:

* How psychological flexibility can reduce polarization and strengthen dialogue across differences

* Building communities and organizations that foster trust, empathy, and shared purpose

* Practical strategies for scaling ACT from individuals to families, schools, workplaces, and society

* The opportunities and risks of AI—and why values must guide technological progress

* Leadership lessons for building a movement that empowers people from the ground up

* A vision for creating systems that help every person and community thrive

Key Takeaway:Lasting social change comes from empowering people and communities with the skills, relationships, and values needed to work together—using science and technology to support human flourishing rather than exploit it.

Host: Dr Anthony Biglan

Co-host: Dr Alison Szarko is a behavioral scientist whose work bridges contextual behavioral science with healthcare experience management, omnichannel listening architecture, and organizational performance. She is passionate about the intersection of behavioral science, psychological flexibility, and clinical experiences in complex health systems. www.alisonszarkophd.com

Got a question you want answered in a future episode? Email us at Hello@valuestoaction.org

For more information on Values to Action, to join the movement, or learn more about The Nurture Effect Podcast or A Nurturing Nation, please visit valuestoaction.org.