Society & Culture · Pushkin Industries
by Pushkin Industries
What happens when life doesn’t go according to plan? In this award-winning podcast, cognitive scientist Dr. Maya Shankar explores how we experience change and strategies we can use to better navigate moments of upheaval. Maya’s life took a dramatic turn when an injury ended her career as a violinist and inspired her to study the science of change. Named Apple Podcasts’ Best Show of the Year, A Slight Change of Plans features deeply personal stories and scientific insights about who we are and who we become in the face of a big change. Past guests include Kacey Musgraves, Brené Brown, Ruby Bridges, Amanda Knox, Adam Grant, Angela Duckworth and more. Whether it’s a sudden pivot or a slow transformation, each episode reveals how change can give us an opportunity to reimagine who we are and unlock greater possibility. You can follow Maya on instagram @DrMayaShankar and read her free newsletter at changewithmaya.com. Get early, ad-free access to episodes of A Slight Change of Plans by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkinSubscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Position in the Society & Culture chart (US), last 90 days.
Where A Slight Change of Plans ranks today in each Apple Podcasts chart (US, Sep 9, 2026).
A curated, balanced selection of Apple Podcasts reviews.
I’m grateful for this show, life can be really hard. In the face of that, too often there is pessimism, anger, or toxic positivity. Dr Maya Shankar’s depth of compassion, curiosity, empathy, and optimism are so needed in this world right now. Thank you for sharing your story and other’s stories of how they face seemingly impossible changes of plans.
Have listened to this wonderful podcast from its inception. It’s supported me through Covid losses, the loss of my son, lost homes, lost identities. You’ve validated my grief through all these transitions, helped me feel not so alone. Just listened to parts 1 & 2 of A Million Little Losses, re a woman caregiving her ALS husband, and was reminded of Pauline Boss. Pauline wrote and developed the concept of “ambiguous loss.” It’s a state of loss and grief occurring when we grieve loved ones whose bodies are missing ?as in wars or 9/11), or when your loved one is disappearing before your eyes (physically present but mentally gone), as in Alzheimer's. It’s a special kind of excruciating grief. I highly recommend reading Boss’s books for caregivers, to go along with A Slight Change In Plans. Wonderful, supportive stuff meeting a silent need for so many people. Thank you so very much…
Always an intelligent, honest discussion. Maya treats her guests with respect and empathy. I highly recommend this podcast.
By chance, I came across Maya’s work thanks to Adam Grant and am so grateful for her beautiful and inspirational content. I just listened to her podcast, ‘Maya's Slight Change in Perspective’ It's truly touching and brought me to tears. Despite having a long day ahead, I can't wait to listen to another episode.
We strive to present a balanced view by showing a diverse range of reviews from Apple Podcasts.
Popular shows in Society & Culture, for your next listen.
Daily updated Apple Podcasts rankings for the United States.
Here you find the Apple Podcasts chart positions of A Slight Change of Plans, its latest episodes to listen to directly, and reviews from listeners. Rankings are updated daily for the United States.
Questions or issues? Reach us at hello@reason.fm