Description
The Agatha and Anthony Precourt Family Lecture Series, presented by the Office of Faculty Affairs, brought psychologist Angela Duckworth, motivation researcher David Yeager, and UT Austin swimming coach Bob Bowman together for a candid conversation on grit, growth, and the pursuit of greatness. The panel took place on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center at The University of Texas at Austin.
Drawing on decades of research and real-world coaching experience, the panelists explored how perseverance, mindset, and purposeful effort work together to unlock human potential. Inspired by the central idea of Duckworth's newest book, "Situated," they also discussed how our environments, relationships, and daily choices can turn effort into lasting success.
Featuring:
Angela Duckworth, Psychologist and Co-founder & CEO of Character Lab, and New York Times bestselling author of "Grit" and "Situated"
Bob Bowman, UT Austin Men's Swimming & Diving Coach, who coached Michael Phelps to 23 Olympic gold medals
David Yeager, Professor of Psychology at UT Austin and author of "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People"
Talks at Texas brings you talks, lectures, panels, and conversations from The University of Texas at Austin.
0:00 Introduction to the forum
6:38 Core performance frameworks
14:24 The mental game and situational agency
24:17 The power of mentorship and team dynamics
36:15 Cultivating effective environments
48:07 Societal trends and the value of community
54:13 Balancing goals and the process