
INSIGHTS
Table of Contents
Writing
James offers a scientific perspective—rooted in physics, chemistry, biology, and neurology—to explain the trends and events that are reshaping businesses, economies, societies, and cultures. His insights help leaders in the commercial, public, and social sectors develop a deeper understanding of the cognitive connections that are profoundly impacting every aspect of their organizations, their communities, and the planet we share.
Your Swiss Cheese Brain
The brain excels at learning but resists unlearning, locking in beliefs to conserve energy. To adapt in a changing world, we must reopen gaps, question assumptions, and stay flexible.
It Doesn't Add Up: The Truth About Merit
Some say it’s about fairness. Others claim it’s about merit. But when the math tells a different story, who are we really trying to keep out—and why?
The Last Thing We Choose
When life strips everything away, what you choose to hold onto says everything. This is the story of a woman, her changing hats, and the quiet power of remembering who you are.
Build Up. Build Down. Or Disappear Sideways.
Everyone talks about building a network—but what happens when yours forgets you the moment you step away?
How AI Stole My Em Dash (and Possibly My Soul)
What if the one punctuation mark that finally made your writing feel like you… suddenly made everyone think you were a bot?
Black Holes and the Silence That Surrounds Them
We don’t always see what’s pulling us off course.
But we feel it—in the silence, the tension, the things we keep orbiting but never name. This isn’t about astronomy. It’s about us.
One Thing. Then Another. Then Another.
Most of us won’t change the world. But we can change something. And if we do that enough times, in enough small places, the world starts to change on its own.
The Hidden Harm of “Let Them”
Emotions aren’t triggered—they’re built from experience, which means advice like “let them” might be reinforcing the very patterns we’re trying to escape.
The Mile-High Misery Club
If you’ve ever questioned humanity at 36,000 feet, you’re not alone.
This is what happens when you fly too often, sleep too little, and sit too close.
Seeing Our Reflection: The Future Of Relationships. Part II
We don’t stay in relationships because they’re good for us. We stay because they’re easy—and soon, technology may make that choice for us.
To Be Seen, At Last: The Future of Relationships. Part 1
Not every story about technology is about fear. Sometimes, it’s about remembering the people we forget—and the seats we leave empty.
Why Leaders Resist Change (Even When They Say They Want It)
Leaders often say they support change—but their actions tell a different story. The future doesn’t get blocked by resistance, but by the comfort of those who no longer feel the urgency to move.
Merit Badges
Not all badges are pinned to uniforms. Some are stitched into our lives—earned through tough days, hard choices, and showing up when it matters.
Let Go, Rebuild, Repeat: The Biology of Becoming Better
Most people think resilience is about staying strong—but nature shows it’s about changing smart. The systems that survive are the ones that give something up and build back better, again and again.
“Well, Duh”: How Common Sense Kills Curiosity
We don’t outgrow curiosity—we shame it, silence it, and call it common sense.
And that’s when the trouble begins.
Lessons From A Bag Of Doritos
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s measurable. But the most important work often isn’t.
Please Remain Human: Your Job Depends on It
As AI outperforms us at being machines, the only way to stay relevant is to get better at being human.
In A Time Of Cowards
You think you know what courage looks like—until you come face to face with it.
The Age of Endless Conversation: Are We Really Saying Anything?
What if the real advantage isn’t talking more, but knowing when to be silent?
Rethinking Your Role: Why ‘Understanding Your Client’s Business’ No Longer Works
The world no longer rewards those who claim to have all the answers—it belongs to those who ensure others can navigate uncertainty without losing everything.
Videos
You Can’t Handle The Truth
When it comes to relationships, being honest is more important than being nice.
You Aren’t Who You Were Yesterday
The ever-changing human mind shapes our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, influencing how we navigate the world each day.
Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.
Are you and your organization ready to guarantee your products and services? Can you truly deliver on the promises you make?
Nature’s First Strategy
Nature’s winning strategy is simple: life thrives when it sustains itself, optimizes energy, and grows. When it can’t, it fades. Humans flourish by following the same blueprint.
Our education and development are built on learning and acquiring new information. But unlearning old information is just as important.
Unlearning
Understanding one’s value is about more than recognizing their current abilities. It’s also envisioning the greatness they’re capable of achieving.
Seeing Potential
You don’t always need to do great things yourself. Sometimes, your greatest achievement is bringing together those who can.
Matchmakers
Our brain is naturally inclined to take the easy route, favoring routines and avoiding challenges. To achieve success, we must deliberately activate curiosity, creativity, and optimism—because they won’t spark on their own.
Static Thinkers
Myths & Mythmakers
Coming Soon.