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In this episode, Drs. Derek and Laura Cabrera of Cornell University explore how to think through moments of crisis using systems thinking.

They break down a critical first step—questioning whether something is truly a crisis or a product of inflated thinking—and show how unchecked mental models and worst-case assumptions can create unnecessary stress. Using the DSRP framework, they walk through how to set boundaries, break a crisis into parts, examine relationships, and take multiple perspectives to regain clarity and control.

They also explore why slowing down is essential in complex and turbulent situations, how misjudging your level of agency can make things worse, and why aligning with reality—rather than reacting to imagined outcomes—is the key to navigating difficult moments effectively.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a situation spiraling out of control, this episode gives you a practical, systems-level way to see it clearly and take action.