Dr. Nick Epley, PhD, is a professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago and a leading expert on the science of social connection. We discuss how seemingly small daily interactions with strangers (as well as with people we know) can meaningfully improve our mental and physical health. Dr. Epley also explains how to reduce social anxiety using simple and easily accessible science-supported tools. We also discuss the data on assumptions — both the ones we and others make — and why so often those are wrong when it comes to social dynamics. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Wealthfront*: https://wealthfront.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Function: https://functionhealth.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Timestamps

Nick Epley

Assumptions about Other Thoughts; Inferring Behavior

Eye Gaze, Social Cues

Sponsors: Wealthfront & Eight Sleep

Tone, Voice vs Writing; AI; Public Figures & Ambiguity

Importance of Social Connection, Communication Types

Social Isolation, Self-Worth

Sponsor: AG1

Social Media, Conversation & Responsiveness

Social Connection & Cooperation; Adopted Children

Connecting with Strangers, Manners

Fear of Strangers, Tool: Small Moments for Connection

Sponsor: Function

Connection to Humanity, Strangers; Extroversion & Well-Being

Social Anxiety & Changing Beliefs; 100 Days of Rejection

Perceived Creepiness, Social Anxiety; Developing Social Skills

Sponsor: LMNT

Initiating Conversation, Testing Cues, Pessimistic Expectations

Social Gatherings; Blessings of Children with Down Syndrome

Parents, Shame, Children Challenges; Supporting Kids' Pursuits

Outdoors, Hunters, Conservation, Social Connection

Modeling Social Interactions for Kids, Tool: Habits Awareness