The Decision Education Podcast with Annie Duke: Episode 37: Choosing With Intent with Dr. Sunita Sah

Choosing With Intent

What does it really mean to choose with intent—and why do we often go with the default option? Our host, Annie Duke, is joined by award-winning Cornell University professor and expert in organizational psychology Dr. Sunita Sah to explore the hidden forces behind compliance, consent, and ethical decision-making.

Drawing on her multidisciplinary background in medicine, psychology, and consulting, Sunita unpacks why we say “yes” when we really want to say “no,” and how seemingly simple disclosures can backfire in high-stakes situations. Whether it’s navigating career pivots or teaching kids to stand their ground, Sunita makes a compelling case for redefining defiance not as disobedience, but as integrity in action.

Key takeaways include the difference between compliance and true consent, how to recognize and overcome “insinuation anxiety,” and how to use tools like the Defiance Compass to act in line with your values—especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Read more on AllianceForDecisionEducation.org