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In this episode, we explore the complexities of personal growth and career development with Connor Joyce, a Senior User Researcher at Microsoft's Copilot team, the CEO of Desired Outcome Labs, the author of Bridging Intentions to Impact, and now a guest lecturer at UPenn's Master's of Behavioral and Decision Sciences program. From climbing Kilimanjaro to completing an Ironman 70.3, Connor shares candid insights about the relationship between achievement, validation, and authentic growth.

Episode Highlights

• Connor's 3-part framework for personal growth: growth mindset, experimentation, and surrounding yourself with incredible people
• Finding the balance between ambition and inner peace
• Navigating career setbacks and layoffs with evolving resilience
• Creating authentic content that truly helps others
• The "four idols" framework for understanding career motivations
• “There’s always someone with a bigger boat,” a metaphor that means that no matter how much you have or accomplish, there will always be someone with more 

About Connor Joyce

Connor is a Senior User Researcher on Microsoft's Copilot team, an advisor to Subconscious.AI, a founding member of the Applied Behavioral Science Association, and a lecturer at UPenn's Master's of Behavioral and Decision Sciences program. His work focuses on the intersection of behavioral science and technology, with a particular emphasis on helping people bridge the gap between intentions and actions.

Frameworks Mentioned

• Growth mindset principles from Carol Dweck's work
• The concept of local vs. global maxima in career development
• Allegory of the cave
• David Brooks' framework of the four idols: power, prestige, money, and pleasure

Connect with Our Guest

• Follow Connor on LinkedIn
• Learn about Desired Outcome Labs
• Book: "Bridging Intentions to Impact"
• Connor’s Writings on Behavioral Science, UXR, Tech: Medium 
• Connor’s Writings on Personal Growth: Substack

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Have thoughts about this episode? Connect with Dr. Michelle Handy on LinkedIn and follow Deep Thoughts for more insights at the intersection of behavioral science, tech, and design.

Deep Thoughts with Michelle Handy explores the intersections of behavioral science, tech, and design through engaging conversations with thought leaders. Whether you're building products, leading teams, or navigating your own career journey, each episode delivers practical insights to inspire personal growth and drive innovation.