In this episode of The Next Big Idea, Michael Kavnat interviews psychologist Scott Barry Kaufman, author of "Rise Above," about overcoming a victim mindset and empowering oneself. Kaufman discusses the prevalence of victimhood in modern culture, fueled by social media and a desire for attention, while differentiating it from genuine trauma. He advocates for an "empowerment mindset" that emphasizes personal agency, resilience, and taking responsibility. The conversation explores strategies for shifting from rumination to future-oriented thinking, including emotional regulation, cognitive reframing, and focusing on service to others. Kaufman shares his personal experiences of overcoming a learning disability and highlights the importance of forgiveness, self-awareness, and connecting with one's values to realize full potential.
