In the first two installments of this series, we looked at the difference between technical and adaptive challenges—problems that can be solved with known expertise, versus those that need new ways of thinking to move forward. We also explored conceptual belief change, especially categorical shifts, and how the way someone classifies a problem can either […]
The only way to shift something is to see it Read More »
The Hidden Cost of a “Dental Paradise” Let me paint a picture: my mouth is a dental goldmine. Not for me, but for every dentist and orthodontist who’s ever crossed its path. I’ve helped fund more dental degrees and home renovations than I care to admit. Why? Because I’m genetically missing six permanent teeth. Yes,
Creating the ‘Of Course!’ Moment: The Power of Unexpectedly Obvious Ideas Read More »
In Part 1 of this series, I introduced a framework that’s already shifted how I approach strategy and message design: the difference between adaptive and technical challenges. Adaptive challenges are problems for which there is not yet a known, concrete, or consensus solution. They are problems that need new answers, which almost always need new
Why changing what someone thinks means changing how they think first Read More »
“Dr. Faller, this one’s for you.” As I wrap up my first year in the doctoral program at Teachers College, Columbia University, I’ve been reflecting on the concepts that have shifted how I think, work, and communicate. These aren’t just academic theories—they’re tools for transformation. Tools I believe can help all of us make the
Adaptive vs. Technical: The Shift in Thinking That Changes Everything Read More »
What makes “A diamond is forever” one of the most recognizable taglines of all time? Why do phrases like “The early bird gets the worm” or “Haste makes waste” stick in our minds for generations? The answer lies in their proverb-like quality – a powerful message design technique you can use to make your ideas
How to Create Messages They Can’t Forget: The Power of Proverbs Read More »
One of my favorite sources for interesting stories to use in presentations and content is DailyArt. It’s an app that shares a work of art and the story behind it every day, and a recent entry stopped me in my tracks, because it was a beautiful and unusual illustration of how constraints drive creativity and
How could you use it? What a silhouette can teach us about success Read More »
How do you change someone’s mind about something false that they believe is true? Is it possible? My friend and change psychologist, Owen Fitzpatrick, recently recommended the book How Minds Change by David McRaney, where one of the central stories of the book is all about someone who changed his mind about 9/11 conspiracy theories,
Countering Conspiracy Beliefs with AI Read More »
Have you ever wondered why some brands or ideas are instantly recognizable, while others blend into the background? The secret isn’t just in their logos or taglines – it’s woven into the very fabric of their message. In my book “Say What They Can’t Unhear,” I explore how lasting change happens when your message aligns
Make it Recognizable: Weaving Your Signature Into Every Message Read More »
I’ve been thinking about how people think, how they change, how they think about change, and how they think to change… which is why I’ve been thinking we need a new way to think about not only how people think but also how they think about changing. In other words, I believe we need a
A New Metaphor for Motivation Read More »
