426. “Leaders Can Make or Break You” | Biohacking Leadership with Dr. Scott Hutcheson
Episode description
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Scott Hutcheson, a biosocial scientist and senior lecturer at Purdue University, whose work with hundreds of organizations has redefined how we understand leadership. Dr. Hutcheson’s new book, Biohacking Leadership, takes a unique look at how leadership is rooted in biology and behavior—demonstrating that how we feel at work is shaped less by the job itself and more by the signals sent by our leaders.
Dr. Hutcheson shares how his background in theater led to his innovative approach, showing that effective leadership is all about behavioral signals—what he calls “biomarkers”—clustered into warmth, competence, and gravitas. Instead of fixed rules, he encourages leaders to experiment and refine their approach, learning from every interaction. By dialing into the neurobiology of connection, story, and conversation, we can shift team chemistry and drive meaningful performance, regardless of role or generation.
The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway
You learn to be a leader through experimentation and refinement. Every leadership interaction is an opportunity to try new approaches, observe the results, and adjust your signals—growing through trial, error, and adaptation.
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Produced by NOVA