Can you actually become more outgoing, more conscientious, or even more emotionally stable? In this episode of FOMO Sapiens, Patrick McGinnis sits down with Olga Khazan, staff writer for The Atlantic and author of Weird, to dive into the science of personality change. Drawing from her own experience to become more extroverted, Olga explains how traits we once thought were fixed can shift through small, intentional actions. From the Big Five to mindfulness and behavioral tweaks, this conversation offers science-backed tools for reshaping your self—and why it’s not too late to become the person you want to be. Perfect for anyone curious about personal development, identity, or reinvention.
Meet our guest:
Olga Khazan is a staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World. She writes about psychology, behavior, and identity, with a sharp eye on the social forces that shape who we become. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time, and other leading publications. Her storytelling blends data with human insight, making complex ideas about personality and change both accessible and engaging.
For media and speaking requests, and to suggest a guest for the show, please email letsconnect@patrickmcginnis.com.
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