A Slight Change of Plans

Why We Avoid Conversations That Would Make Us Happier

May 12, 2026·45 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

We often avoid social interactions out of fear that others don’t want to engage with us. But social psychologist Nick Epley says that fear is misplaced. Today, Nick joins Maya to talk about why we’re missing out on positive connections that could enrich our lives, and how we can fix this.  Check out Nick’s new book, “A Little More Social.”  If you enjoyed our conversation with Nick, check out our episode with Vanessa Bohns, “You Have More Influence Than You Think.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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