You know that feeling when you meet someone and something just … clicks? Scientists have a name for it. They call it “interpersonal synchrony.” Turns out we subconsciously mimic other people’s movements, postures, facial expressions, and gestures. We even sync involuntary functions like heart rate, blood pressure, brain waves, pupil dilation, and hormonal activity. Kate Murphy, author of the forthcoming book Why We Click, says interpersonal synchrony — syncing for short — is our superpower. But there’s a catch. The same instinct that bonds us can also hijack us.

Sponsored By:

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at ⁠shopify.com/nbi⁠

The Next Big Idea Club - Join a stimulating community for a year of learning and growth at ⁠nextbigideaclub.com⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, check out our conversations with Charles Duhigg, David Brooks, and John Colapinto.

Want to connect?