What to do when you don't know what's next | Jordana Cole, MAPP | TEDxWarrenton

Jordana Cole delivers an engaging and energetic talk that effectively uses improvisation as a metaphor for navigating life’s uncertainties. The talk’s strength lies in its practical, actionable advice and the speaker’s charismatic delivery. The three boosts are memorable and grounded in common sense, and the interactive symphony segment effectively demonstrates the power of play and collective participation.

From a scientific perspective, the talk is more motivational than rigorously evidence-based. Cole references the Gallup organization’s research on strengths, which is a legitimate source, but she does not provide specific citations or delve into the methodology. The claim that ‘improvisation is something we remember’ is presented as a philosophical assertion rather than a scientifically proven fact. While the talk draws on positive psychology concepts, it lacks the depth of a literature review or original research.

The argumentation is coherent and logically structured, moving from the problem of uncertainty to practical solutions. However, the reliance on personal anecdotes, while relatable, limits the generalizability of the advice. The talk would benefit from more concrete examples of how these boosts can be applied in professional or personal contexts beyond the stage.

The sources cited are minimal, with only a link to TEDx in the description. The speaker’s credentials (MAPP from UPenn) lend some credibility, but the talk does not provide a comprehensive reference list. The adéquation between title and content is strong, as the talk directly addresses what to do when facing the unknown.

Overall, the talk is valuable for its motivational and practical insights, but it should be viewed as an expert opinion rather than a scientific treatise. It succeeds in inspiring the audience and providing a framework for embracing uncertainty, but it lacks the rigor expected in a purely scientific presentation.

The title accurately reflects the content, which offers practical advice for navigating uncertainty.

7/10

The talk is grounded in the speaker's professional experience and academic background (Master's in Applied Positive Psychology), and references research (Gallup) and concepts from improvisation. However, it is primarily anecdotal and motivational, with limited depth on scientific evidence.

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

• 00:00Introduction: Jordana Cole sets the stage by describing her experience as an improv comedian and corporate leader.
• 01:00She poses the question 'Why?' and introduces the idea that improvisation is innate.
• 02:00First boost: 'Play the scene you're in, not the one you want to be in.' She explains accepting reality and adapting.
• 04:00Personal story of a failed improv scene, illustrating the importance of not dwelling on failure.
• 05:00Second boost: 'Make your memory short and your learning lasting.' She discusses learning from failure.
• 06:00She talks about strengths and references Gallup research on using strengths daily.
• 08:00Third boost: 'Co-create with strength instead of fixing weakness alone.' She emphasizes teamwork.
• 09:00Interactive 'emotional symphony' with the audience to release emotions.
• 11:00Bonus boost: Give yourself permission to play for five minutes.
• 12:00Conclusion: She encourages embracing improvisation to co-create the future.

• TEDx Talks — The talk was given at a TEDx event, and the description links to the TEDx program.

• Gallup — The speaker references Gallup's research on strengths and engagement.