Best Imperfect Strangers Podcasts (2025)

1
Present Like a Pro: The 4 Brain Hacks Used by Top Performers [Social Intelligence Brief] 15:49

22h ago15:49

15:49

Most people think confidence means knowing exactly what to say. But in reality, social confidence starts with knowing how to start—not how to be perfect. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak break down how to overcome the awkwardness of small talk, crush anxiety before it starts, and connect instantly in any room. …

1
3 Rules to Reconnect with Old Friends | Anna Goldfarb 1:06:37

1d ago1:06:37

1:06:37

Modern life has made friendship feel more confusing, fragile, and isolating than ever. In this episode, journalist and author Anna Goldfarb joins us to unpack the paradox of modern friendship — why we’re lonelier despite being more connected, and what we can do to build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. Anna shares her “Triple D” framework (…

1
Lost Touch? Simple Prompts to Reignite Friendships [Social Intelligence Brief] 16:37

8d ago16:37

16:37

You’ve got names in your phone that make you smile—but when’s the last time you actually reached out? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak share four simple, science-backed strategies to reconnect with old friends, former mentors, and professional contacts—even if it’s been years. From “because I thought of you” te…

1
Radical Listening: Transform Your Relationships | Christian van Nieuwerburgh and Robert Biswas-Diener 1:17:45

9d ago1:17:45

1:17:45

In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener and Professor Christian van Nieuwerburgh, authors of Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection. Together, they unpack a new framework for transforming your conversations—not with better scripts, but with sharper intention. Drawing from psychology, coaching, and decad…

1
3-Step Framework That Turns Strangers into Friends [Social Intelligence Brief] 21:51

15d ago21:51

21:51

Moving to a new city can feel like starting over—but it doesn’t have to. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak break down a science-backed three-step strategy to plug into a brand-new social circle in weeks, not months. Whether you’re relocating or just looking to shake up your current routine, you’ll learn how to f…

1
3 Traits of Rainmakers: What Top Performers Do Differently | Matt Dixon 1:18:58

16d ago1:18:58

1:18:58

In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Matt Dixon, co-author of The Challenger Sale and The Activator Advantage. In today’s conversation, Matt Dixon reveals why the professionals dominating in today’s market aren’t necessarily the most credentialed, but the most proactive. We explore Matt’s research across 3,000 professionals and bre…

1
Networking on Easy‑Mode: 3 Proven Plays [Social Intelligence Brief] 18:09

22d ago18:09

18:09

Most networking advice feels awkward, outdated, or downright useless—until now. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak hand you three conversation frameworks that eliminate the stress of small talk and turn fleeting chats into lasting relationships. Whether you dread mixers or freeze up trying to sell your value, thi…

1
4 Principles of Influence from a Hostage Negotiator | Scott Tillema 1:03:49

25d ago1:03:49

1:03:49

In this episode of The Art of Charm, retired SWAT hostage negotiator Scott Tillema shares his battle-tested four-part framework for leading difficult conversations, defusing high-stakes conflicts, and influencing others with clarity and confidence. Trained by the FBI and Harvard, Scott now brings these skills to the boardroom, equipping leaders wit…

1
The Secret to Owning Any Room 27:00

29d ago27:00

27:00

What does it actually mean to be "high value" at a networking event—and how can you radiate it without saying a word? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak break down how calm, cooperative, and confident behavior—not bravado—builds real influence. They share the science behind why people are drawn to prestige-based …

1
Escape the Dream Job Trap | Simone Stolzoff 1:09:07

1M ago1:09:07

1:09:07

In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Simone Stolzoff, author of The Good Enough Job, to explore why modern work culture traps so many of us in cycles of burnout, identity crises, and unrealistic ambition. Drawing on research and personal experience, Simone challenges the “dream job” myth and offers a liberating framework: redefine suc…

1
3 Tips to Grow Your Charisma Instantly [Social Intelligence Brief] 22:37

1M ago22:37

22:37

Charisma isn't just for extroverts or performers—it's a scientific advantage that determines how often you're invited, trusted, and remembered. In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak reveal why people decide how they feel about you before they evaluate your skills, and how this hidden force might be keeping you from …

1
3 Powerful Tools to Manage Emotions Under Pressure | Ethan Kross 1:04:35

1M ago1:04:35

1:04:35

This week on The Art of Charm, we're joined by award-winning psychologist and bestselling author Ethan Kross to explore the fascinating science of emotion regulation. In his newest book Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You, Ethan reveals how emotions secretly drive 90% of our lives—and how mastering them can unlock performance, co…

1
How to Vibe With Anyone [Social Intelligence Brief] 22:44

1M ago22:44

22:44

Are you missing the skill that actually determines success? In this episode of Social Intelligence, AJ Harbinger and Johnny Dzubak reveal how to create genuine connections in high-stakes situations - whether it's a first date, business lunch, or million-dollar meeting. This masterclass in "vibing" breaks down the science of meaningful connection an…

1
Ping & Persuade: How to Win in the Era of Always-On Communication | Andrew Brodsky 1:08:14

2M ago1:08:14

1:08:14

In a world where remote work, Slack threads, and Zoom fatigue dominate, The Art of Charm welcomes Andrew Brodsky, management professor at UT Austin and author of Ping: The Secrets of Successful Virtual Communication. This episode is a masterclass in how to reclaim productivity, enhance visibility, and communicate strategically in a virtual-first wo…

1
Stress Isn’t the Enemy: The Science of Peak Leadership Performance | Sebastien Page 1:11:47

2M ago1:11:47

1:11:47

In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with Sebastien Page — Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price and author of The Psychology of Leadership — to explore what world-class leadership really looks like. Blending sports psychology, positive psychology, and personality science, Sebastien unpacks the mental habits of resilient leaders, th…

1
The Power of Imperfection: Make Better Decisions, Take Real Action | Oliver Burkeman 1:02:57

2M ago1:02:57

1:02:57

In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with bestselling author and productivity renegade Oliver Burkeman to unpack his refreshingly honest approach to time, ambition, and self-worth. Drawing from his latest book Meditations for Mortals, Oliver introduces a new philosophy he calls Imperfectionism — a radical shift from hustle culture and p…

1
Validation Ladder: 8 Skills That Build Incredible Relationships | Dr. Caroline Fleck 1:08:53

2M ago1:08:53

1:08:53

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Caroline Fleck—licensed psychologist, corporate consultant, and Stanford adjunct. With years of clinical practice and executive coaching under her belt, Dr. Fleck has developed powerful validation techniques that help high performers build authentic relationships and navigate complex conversations. Her ground…

1
9 'Bad' Traits That Get You Promoted | Jenny Wood 1:00:42

2M ago1:00:42

1:00:42

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Jenny Wood—career coach, former Google executive, and author of Wild Courage. Over 18 years at Google, Jenny rose from entry-level to executive and created one of the company’s largest career development programs. Her work focuses on breaking the myths of professional success and teaching high performers how to r…

1
How to Win Without Burning Out | Steve Magness 1:04:47

3M ago1:04:47

1:04:47

Today's guest is Steve Magness, a world-renowned expert on human performance and resilience. As the bestselling author of Do Hard Things and Win the Inside Game, Steve has coached Olympic athletes, executives, and high performers to break through mental barriers and sustain success. With a background in sports science and psychology, he explores th…

1
Handle the Pressure and Avoid These 3 Leadership Traps | Sabina Nawaz 1:08:13

3M ago1:08:13

1:08:13

In today’s episode, we explore the essential leadership skills that transform good managers into great ones with Sabina Nawaz. As the CEO of Nawaz Consulting, Sabina has advised Fortune 500 executives, government leaders, and nonprofit organizations on how to navigate the complexities of leadership, influence, and communication. Sabina is also the …

1
Avoid The High Achiever’s Trap | Dr. Mary Anderson 1:01:27

3M ago1:01:27

1:01:27

In today’s episode, we discuss the psychology of high achievement and sustainable success with Dr. Mary Anderson, who has helped countless professionals break free from burnout while maintaining their edge. She is the author of The Happy High Achiever: 8 Essentials to Overcome Anxiety, Manage Stress, and Energize Yourself for Success Without Losing…

1
Managing Up: 10 Conversations with Your Manager | Melody Wilding 1:07:37

3M ago1:07:37

1:07:37

In today’s episode, we discuss the most effective approach to fly up the corporate ladder with Melody Wilding, an executive coach, human behavior expert, and acclaimed author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge. Recognized as one of Business Insider’s “Most Innovative Coaches,” Melody specializes in guiding sensitive …

1
How to Be Super Psyched: The Formula for Connection | Dr. Adam Dorsay 1:03:15

4M ago1:03:15

1:03:15

In today’s episode, we explore the power of connection and overcoming imposter syndrome with Dr. Adam Dorsay, a licensed psychologist, executive coach, and expert in human connection and well-being. As a TEDx speaker, podcast host, and author of Super Psyched: Unleash the Power of the 4 Types of Connection and Live the Life You Love, Adam works wit…

1
Nonverbal Secrets to Building Trust | Dr. Abigail Maroño 1:00:48

4M ago1:00:48

1:00:48

In today’s episode, we discuss the science of nonverbal communication and trust with Dr. Abbie Maroño, a leading expert in social influence, trust-building, and body language analysis. As a PhD researcher and international consultant, Abbie specializes in uncovering the hidden cues that shape human interaction, from boardrooms to high-stakes negoti…

1
The Science of Exploration |Alex Hutchinson 1:01:25

4M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

In today’s episode, we dive into the science of curiosity, exploration, and human potential with Alex Hutchinson, an award-winning journalist and expert in endurance and neuroscience. A former national team long-distance runner, Alex holds a PhD in physics from Cambridge and a master’s in journalism from Columbia. He has written extensively about t…

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Imperfect Strangers Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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