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In this episode of the Real Intelligence Podcast, Jenny Swim explores observation as a defining skill shared by experts across disciplines, from leadership and parenting to aviation, medicine, and emergency response. Drawing on neuroscience and the OODA Loop (Observe–Orient–Decide–Act), Jenny shows how observation creates the critical pause between stimulus and response—and why our bias toward speed and certainty often causes us to miss what matters most.

You’ll learn the difference between true observation and judgment, how autopilot and stress distort perception, and what happens when observation is rushed, as seen in the Boeing 737 MAX crisis. Jenny also shares practical, evidence-informed ways to strengthen your observation muscle, including the 10% Slower Rule and separating data from story. Whether you’re leading a team, raising a family, or navigating everyday decisions, this episode reveals how observing first leads to clearer orientation, better choices, and more aligned action.

Additional Resources:

National Research Council (2000). How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience, and School (Chapter 5). Read online

Stanford Medicine (2014). Expert pilots process multiple visual cues more efficiently. Read online

Hoffman, K. A., Aitken, L. M., & Duffield, C. (2009). Novice vs. expert nurses: How cue collection drives decision-making. PubMed

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