Growing up in public school—in classrooms that felt like scenes out of Lord of the Flies—Dr. Tracy Cooper was anxious, observant, and overwhelmed. But later he discovered what he—and millions of others—actually were: highly sensitive people, part of a natural trait that brings heightened empathy, powerful intuition, and deep creativity.
Today, Dr. Cooper is one of the world’s leading experts on high sensitivity. He’s the author of multiple books, including Thrive and Empowering the Sensitive Male Soul, a professor in a doctoral program, and co-producer of the documentaries Sensitive and Sensitive Men Rising. Through his research, writing, and speaking, he has become a trusted guide for millions of highly sensitive people seeking to better understand themselves and thrive in a noisy world.
In this episode, Tracy shares his journey and the science behind sensory processing sensitivity, why environment matters so much for HSPs, how sensitive men can push past stigma, and what practical steps quiet, reflective people can take to thrive as leaders.
Key Lessons:
Sensory processing sensitivity is a genetic trait with evolutionary advantages.
HSPs process information deeply, have higher empathy, and notice subtle environmental cues.
Positive environments help HSPs thrive; negative ones damage them.
Leadership requires developing communication and collaboration skills.
Sensitive men face unique stigma and cultural challenges.
Growth is gradual, requiring courage, skill-building, and self-acceptance.
Where to find Dr. Tracy Cooper:
Website: drtracycooper.org
Film: sensitivemenrising.org
Social: @TracyCooperPhD on Facebook and Instagram
In this episode, we cover:
(00:00) Tracy’s early life and discovery of sensory processing sensitivity
(04:00) The science of high sensitivity and how it works in the brain
(10:00) Differences and overlap between HSPs and introverts
(15:00) Sensitive men and cultural stigma
(20:00) Leadership challenges and strengths for HSPs
(30:00) Practical advice on communication, collaboration, and building skills
(38:00) Growth, trauma healing, and realizing your potential
(45:00) How to find purpose and push through fear
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