In an era Zach Mercurio calls an “epidemic of insignificance,” many students feel invisible. And when students feel unseen, motivation fades, trust erodes, and persistence becomes fragile.

Drawing on his bestselling book The Power of Mattering, Mercurio shares three simple, research-backed practices—noticing, affirming, and helping students feel needed—that educators can use to cultivate significance in everyday moments. These small shifts don’t require sweeping reforms or more time, but they can transform classroom culture, performance, and resilience.

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or leader, this conversation offers practical, powerful ways to help people feel seen—and thrive.

Guest Bio

Zach Mercurio, Ph.D., is the bestselling author of The Power of Mattering (Harvard Business Review Press). His scholarship in positive organizational psychology and meaningful work informs his engagements with higher education institutions and organizations seeking to foster cultures of significance, motivation, and well-being.

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