Professor of Behavioral Science, University of Chicago

Dr. Nick Epley

Nick Epley is a leading researcher in behavioral science and social psychology, specializing in how people understand each other's thoughts and the health impact of social connection. He is the author of Mindwise and has conducted decades of research on social assumptions, connection, and the barriers to authentic interaction.

Known For

Research on social assumptions and misunderstandingsThe science of social connection and healthFrameworks for reducing social anxietyWork on how perception and expectation shape social interaction

Canon

Confidence Comes From Competence and Action, Not Readiness

Canon

Revealing Is a Learnable Skill: Strategic Vulnerability as Relational Competence

Novel

We Are Mind Readers (and Terrible at It)

Novel

Books

■Mindwise: Why We Misunderstand What Others Think, Believe, Feel, and Want(2014)

Episodes

#The Surprising Case for OversharingJun 8, 2026 #Hello, Stranger: Why Curiosity Beats Charisma Every TimeMay 25, 2026 #How to Overcome Social Anxiety | Dr. Nick EpleyMay 18, 2026