Psychologist

Nicholas Epley

University of Chicago professor studying mind perception and social cognition.

Known For

MindwiseMind perception research

Canon

Confidence Comes From Competence and Action, Not Readiness

Close Relationships Are the Strongest Predictor of Life Satisfaction

Revealing Is a Learnable Skill: Strategic Vulnerability as Relational Competence

Shared Novel Activities Build Stronger Romantic Bonds Than Physical Attraction

The Happiness Boost of Talking to Strangers and Our Consistent Mis-prediction of It

Strategic Vulnerability Increases Trust and Liking

Episodes

#The Commuter's Paradox: Why We Misjudge Social Connection (With Nick Epley)Sep 7, 2026 #Talk To A Stranger—It’s Good For YouAug 27, 2026 #You're Actually Not Bothering People EnoughAug 10, 2026 #Forget Small Talk: Go Deep InsteadJul 13, 2026 #Why Talking to Strangers Makes You Happier Than You Think | Social Intelligence BriefingMay 28, 2026 #Why Modern Life Feels So EmptyMay 18, 2026 #Mind ReadingSep 15, 2025