Why do I feel stuck? How can I become more creative? What can I do to improve my relationships? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re not alone. On Hidden Brain, we help you understand your own mind — and the minds of the people around you. (We're routinely rated the #1 science podcast in the United States.) Hosted by veteran science journalist Shankar Vedantam.
In this podcast episode, we explore the complex nature of pride by distinguishing between the positive aspect of authentic pride, as seen in ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazes, and the harmful effects of hubristic pride, highlighted by psychologist Jessica Tracy. Through captivating stories and research insights, the d...
In this podcast episode, psychologists Amit Goldenberg and anthropologist Dimitris Xygalatas explore the fascinating interplay of collective emotions and rituals. They share personal stories and research findings, illustrating how communal experiences—like Yom Kippur or protests—can intensify feelings and create a sens...
In this podcast episode, Alison Fragale explores the complex dynamics of self-promotion and influence, sharing her personal experiences with societal views on status, assertiveness, and warmth. She candidly discusses her early efforts to make an impact, the drawbacks of self-deprecation, and the unique challenges women...
In this episode of the podcast, we explore the innovative research of psychologist James Pennebaker, who reveals how language patterns—especially function words—can provide profound insights into a person's mental state and social connections. Through intriguing case studies involving individuals like Henry Hellyer and...
This podcast episode features Dannagal Goldthwaite Young, who investigates how our ability to tolerate uncertainty shapes our lives and perspectives. Through personal anecdotes involving her experiences with improv, the loss of her luggage, and her boyfriend Mike's brain tumor diagnosis, Dannagal illustrates the profou...
This podcast episode delves into the intricate relationship between our inherited money beliefs and financial behaviors, as Brad Klontz discusses how family history and formative financial experiences shape our "money scripts." From identifying detrimental beliefs like money avoidance and worship to exploring strategie...
This podcast episode delves into the profound impacts of social connections, the pitfalls of cynicism, and the transformative power of hope, as exemplified by the stories of Atsushi Watanabe and Emil Bruno. Through the lens of psychological research, Jamil Zaki reveals how experiences of isolation and community shape o...
This podcast episode examines the intricate dynamics of memory, emphasizing that our expectations about what we can remember often misguide us, as memory is not solely governed by intent but by consistent exposure and active engagement with material. Dan Willingham highlights the significant roles of overlearning and s...
This podcast episode delves into the complexities of saying no, illustrating how social pressures and reputational concerns often lead us to comply with requests against our will. Through personal anecdotes and research, Vanessa Patrick reveals the detrimental effects of agreeing to obligations that don't align with ou...
This podcast episode examines the paradox of free time, revealing that while many strive for leisure, an excess can lead to dissatisfaction due to a loss of purpose. Cassie Holmes encourages a shift in mindset, emphasizing personal agency over time and the importance of mindful allocation of our hours to maximize joy. ...
This podcast episode delves into the concept of undersociality, exploring how the fear of rejection can lead individuals to shy away from social interactions, despite their numerous benefits. Psychologist Nicholas Epley shares enlightening personal anecdotes and research findings that reveal the unexpected joys and mea...
This podcast episode delves into the concept of psychological reactance, illustrating how individuals respond to perceived threats to their autonomy through personal anecdotes, research insights, and practical strategies. By examining various scenarios, such as road rage, pandemic responses, and childhood defiance, the...
This podcast episode highlights the multifaceted nature of humility as a crucial element in personal development and relationships, drawing from Daryl Van Tongeren's personal journey and research. Through anecdotes and scientific findings, Daryl illustrates how practicing humility fosters deeper connections, reduces pe...
This podcast episode critically examines the interplay between misinformation, cognitive biases, and prevailing narratives in today's society by exploring instances such as the BHS and Sports Direct scandals, the misinterpretation of research, and the popularization of misleading concepts like the 10,000 hours rule. Th...
This podcast episode draws insightful parallels between William Wordsworth's critique of industrialization and today's societal obsession with constant engagement, emphasizing the importance of solitude for rejuvenation and self-reflection. Psychologist Netta Weinstein discusses her research on the effects of social di...
This podcast episode explores the challenges and complexities of navigating life's unexpected challenges and finding meaning in the face of disruption. Through personal stories and psychological insights, the episode emphasizes the importance of accepting reality, prioritizing connection and love over fixing problems, ...
This podcast episode delves into the research and experiences of Nafees Hamid, highlighting the connection between sacred values and extremism. Nafees, with the backing of American Express, conducted a research project to understand the mindset of individuals who hold sacred values by recruiting volunteers from extremi...
This podcast episode explores the concept of the inner voice, known as "chatter," and its impact on our well-being and performance. Psychologist Ethan Kross shares his research on chatter, highlighting its connection to uncertainty and intrusive thoughts. Through personal stories and examples, the episode emphasizes th...
This podcast episode delves into the concept of habituation and its impact on various aspects of our lives. Habituation refers to the decrease in emotional and perceptual responses over time to constant or frequent stimuli. The episode explores how habituation affects our happiness levels, mental health, creativity, an...
This podcast episode explores Ara Norenzayan's experiences growing up in Lebanon during the civil war and his subsequent research as a psychologist on the cognitive architecture of religious belief. It delves into the impact of the war on Lebanese society, the role of religion in shaping beliefs and practices, and the ...
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