Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement - podcast cover

Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement

Growth Mindset Psychologywww.growthmindsetpodcast.com
There are a lot of opinions on how to master your mind, but then there’s PSYCHOLOGY. We’re all stuck with the brain we’re born with, but we aren’t stuck with how we use it. Learn science-backed answers to make the most of your mind and your life. CURIOUS? Growth Mindset Psychology is the "self-help sceptic" podcast for the curious. Whether you want to improve performance, navigate setbacks, or know who you are. We find answers to the true science of self-improvement. So put down the astrology chart and start working with your mind, instead of against it. With over 8 million downloads and 60,000 monthly listeners, you’re invited to join. PROCESS Instead of telling you what to think, we discuss how thinking works. Armed with a stack of science journals, textbooks and a boatload of curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of the mind. Why? >>> Success is personal! You might want to make the most of your neurodiverse strengths, start a business, or simply find more reasons to smile. Hone your ability for independent thinking and growth with mental models to pursue your definition of success. HOST I’m Sam Webster Harris, a lifelong learner with ADHD, a raging curiosity, and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions. After launching several businesses, travelling the world and nearly dying a few times I concluded that science and Psychology are where it’s at. What actually makes people happy? What’s the best way to treat a brain? How can I get more done? Studying the answers we find that changing behaviours requires building mindsets, mental models, and a healthy relationship with failure. I run the show to help listeners enjoy nutritious content that feeds their minds (and I needed a legitimate excuse to cover for my reading addiction). PREMIUM Go Ad-Free and listen to exclusive content. Support the show and access the AMA features and community Discord. Growth Mindset Premium ARCHIVE Previous guests include Olympians, Scientists, Billionaires, and Sam's Mum. Past series: — Psychology vs Stoicism — Time Management for busy mortals — Independence and knowing yourself — Cognitive biases and rational thinking — Psychology of connection — Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets

Episodes

4 Unusual and Brilliant Questions To Make You Think w/ Jodi Wellman

Insightful ways to examine your life and better define where it's going. We steal some of the best questions and ideas from different domains that you can try applying to your own life. What is a life worth living Healthy vs toxic aspirations How to abandon what doesn't serve you The illusion of self-importance Our guest today is Jodi Wellman the author of "You Only Die Once" and a source of positive ideas from her work in Applied Positive Psychology. Jodi has a morbid fascination with positive ...

May 17, 202421 min

Zen and the Art of Motor Cortex Maintenance

How your brain creates movement and why it's interesting. We learn about the movement control centre of the brain, how it is a leading indicator for brain and cognitive health in general and how to optimise it. Important topics How does the motor cortex work exactly How to improve reflexes Repair damage and rewire brain circuits How alcohol and cannabis affect the brain If you like understanding yourself or you want to become a pro athlete or musician the episode is a great place to geek out. Sp...

May 14, 202432 min

Work-Life Battle: Why "Balancing" Fails & What Works Instead

The pillars of a happy life lead to increased satisfaction instead of having opposing priorities fight it out. By treating work and life as opposing forces we inevitably end up tipping the scales the wrong way. We can't always subscribe time evenly and things get out of whack. We find there is a much better way by examining the term itself 'Work-life balance". This episode will not only help you find better harmony with your different life projects but also help your awareness and mindsets to th...

May 12, 202417 min

Mastering the Art of Relationship Building for Business and Personal Success w/ Matt Higgins

Avoid the partnership traps everyone falls into and select and build strong relationships, that last. Matt Higgins is an incredibly successful serial entrepreneur and Shark Tank investor with a personal fortune +$150 million dollars. The unspoken ingredient to his success is relationships. We learn about: Relationship dynamics in successful business ventures Avoiding pitfalls in partner selection The importance of shared values Humility and appreciation for different traits This episode covers t...

May 10, 202425 min

Ego Blindspots: 9 Cognitive Biases to Avoid [Biases #1]

Build self-awareness and recognise the mind traps we easily fall into every day. We examine 9 different cognitive biases related to Ego and how we can spot them. Learn: When our ego serves us or sabotages us Why we fall in love for the wrong reasons How our bias to perceive ambiguity as hostility almost triggered a Nuclear war From panicking over getting some ketchup on our trousers to explosive road rage, cognitive biases can give us an answer. Learning how to recognise our own biases can lead ...

May 07, 202434 min

Social Pressure Personality Disorder: A Hypothetical Deep Dive into our Conforming Minds

Is society sick? Are we sick? Let's treat our drive to conform as a disorder we can diagnose and fix. This episode is a hypothetical deep dive where we treat our obedience to social pressure like other personality disorders. Main topics: DSM-5 entry for Social Pressure Personality Disorder (SPPD) 2 contrasting case studies Crossovers with other disorders How to manage and break out of your social pressure problems We develop a set of symptomatic criteria, case studies and a treatment plan to get...

May 05, 202431 min

Understanding Porn Addiction: A HUGE Mental Health Crisis (no one talks about) w/ Eric Zusack

~11% of men are porn addicts (+3% of women). You know a LOT of porn addicts. Today's episode discusses: Why is porn addiction not discussed openly? Why is it so shameful to talk about? Why is the problem only getting worse? How do we create better systems for recovery? On the show, we have Eric Zusack (Powerful Eric) a porn addiction coach. He spent 20 years in therapy for his own porn addiction. He finally recovered by breaking out of the disease model of addiction and instead taking ownership ...

May 03, 202453 min

Quiet Leadership: 3 Under-The-Radar Strategies to Influence Outcomes

The quiet path to loud success by overcoming our nature. We explore ego and our automatic tendencies and how we can over-ride our inbuilt patterns that get in the way of our goals. Set yourself apart in a world dominated by noise Silent but powerful ways to surpass expectations Increase effectiveness at getting what you want We delve into the art of quiet achievement, offering a fresh perspective on how to succeed without the spotlight. Advert - Cozy Earth Luxury Bamboo sheets and Loungeware tha...

Apr 30, 202416 min

Studying Resilience and Hardiness w/ Dr Steven Stein

What can we learn about stress management from consistent out-performers? Dr Steven Stein is the author of "Hardiness: Making Stress Work for You to Achieve Your Goals", and several books on Emotional Intelligence. We learn: How to self-motivate Life lessons from prisoners of war The traits of success behind Olympic champions, Military specialists, and Bus-drivers Dealing with Acute vs Chronic stress The art of resilience through challenge, control and commitment Dr. Steven Stein Bestselling aut...

Apr 26, 202432 min

Loud Thoughts: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and the Default Mode Network

Understand the circuitry of the self as we uncover the neurological pathways behind the Ego and explain what the Default Mode Network is. Topics covered: What the hell is the Default Mode Network The Brain Pathways of Anxiety and Depression The imbalances causing ADHD How modern medicines interact with the brain The effect of meditation and psilocybin on the DMN Starting with Hans Berger's pioneering work with EEG this episode covers the history of Default Mode Network discovery, its role in ADH...

Apr 23, 202428 min

Calculus of Effort: A 3-part Framework for Investing Energy Wisely

Battle the flood of priorities with a tool to decide where to dedicate effort Our tasks in life have different requirements but it's not always obvious. Sometimes we need to: Get it done Aim for average Excel with grandiosity We'll learn the mistakes people make by applying effort in the wrong places and frustrating themselves. Selective bother will help you live a much happier and more complete life. Advert - Cozy Earth Luxury Bamboo sheets and Loungeware that become softer the more you use the...

Apr 21, 202418 min

Assisted Breakthroughs: How Psilocybin can Rewire the Brain w/ Gabriel Charalambides

The science behind Psilocybin-assisted mental health breakthroughs and what are the current benefits and limitations? We have the owner of Odyssey, a psilocybin experience company to discuss the state of psychedelic science and lessons from mental health treatment centres. Topics: The benefits and limitations of Psilocybin therapy What is Oceanic Boundlessness and Ego-dissolution Benefits of psilocybin for OCD and mental health Who should not use psychedelics What does a guide do and who the hel...

Apr 19, 20241 hr

Temporary vs Permanent Values - Why our brain optimises all wrong

Unpacking priorities: clearing life's illusions to find what's really worth your time? This episode dives into different mind traps and how to distinguish noise from necessity. Some lessons: Identifying real vs fleeting values The nature of obsessions Why we get misunderstood Our narrow focus on reality We do an 80:20 analysis of our priorities and get straight on what we need to care about and what doesn't matter. - - Sponsor - Better Help Online therapy can boost you toward being your best sel...

Apr 16, 202426 min

Mind-Traps: 5 Nasty Self-Defeating Beliefs

How to crush the 5 hidden barriers blocking your potential. We dive into subtle negative ideas in the mind that take hold and become accepted as normal. This episode is built to give awareness of these mind traps and positive actions to move forward. We cover: Ego Depletion and limited willpower Defeating our inner critic Overcoming the fear of mistakes Confronting Imposter Syndrome Beating distraction This episode is full of wisdom to boost your growth mindset and take control of your own succe...

Apr 14, 202425 min

You Only Die Once w/ Jodi Wellman

Positive Psychology applied to the shortness of life. A masterclass episode on living wider and deeper with psychologist and author Jodi Wellman. We cover: The walking dead vs astonishingly alive Overcoming habits and autopilot living Regret avoidance and controlling your life Useful positivity vs toxic positivity As they say "Get busy living, or get busy dying". Jodi has a morbid fascination with positive ideas from existential psychology to help brighten your day. Jodi Wellman Book - You Only ...

Apr 12, 20241 hr 1 min

Mind Traps: Identifying and Overcoming Addictive Behaviors

Addiction as a mindset pathway -battle for mental freedom. We delve into the hidden snares of addiction that capture our thoughts and dictate our actions. We learn: What is an addiction How our fears control us How default behaviours become amplified Understanding the hidden costs Reclaiming our potential Join us as we explore the journey from being ensnared by addiction to achieving mental liberation. Growth Mindset pod Sam Webster Harris explores the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purp...

Apr 09, 202427 min

Clash of Plans: Is Your Plan B Sabotaging Plan A? w/ Matt Higgins

How backup plans sabotage our success and learning to take calculated risks. What can we learn from the psychology of an incredible military tactic? How can we shape our behaviours and motivations to increase our chances of success? What happens in our minds when we remove Plan B? Matt Higgins is the author of "Burn the Boats" and has the story and success to back it. After growing up in poverty looking after a disabled mother Matt has taken incredible risks to become the success he is today. Af...

Apr 05, 202447 min

Break Free from Mental Constraints

Explore beyond the edges of your thought patterns and default mind traps. Learn where the line between boring and daring is, without going so far into pure crazy. An adventurous episode today exploring: The dimensionality of existence Zen answers to observing our own behaviours Entropy and chaos Challenging thinking patterns Gravity applied to thoughts What makes life interesting If you have your growth mindset thinking hat on and are ready for some challenging ideas this is the episode for you....

Apr 02, 202425 min

How to Be More Likeable w/ Dr Harry Cohen

The psychology of positive energy and influencing the world with warmth and kindness. Dr Harry Cohen is a psychologist and author of "Be the Sun, Not the Salt". A book about the Heliotropic effect applied to human behaviour, and how we can attract and uplift others through our energy and kindness. We cover: What is the Heliotropic effect The fallacy of good ideas without action Taking responsibility for your impact Embracing healthy negativity and avoiding toxic positivity Chasing realistic drea...

Mar 29, 202438 min

Most Self-Help Advice is Bad (at best...) - What's Useful?

Avoid mental masturbation, curate an information diet that works, and learn tried and tested strategies to build resilience, positivity and a Growth mindset. Topics: The flaws of most 'self-improvement' content Reality vs ideal Advice without action Strategies that consistently change people's lives The world is full of knowledge of what to do and people not doing it. It is also full of people telling you what to do that are just selling you something that won't change your life. Learn how to sc...

Mar 26, 202426 min

Mastering Emotional Intelligence w/ Steven Stein PhD

Cultivate emotional wisdom with the bestselling author of Emotional Intelligence for Dummies. Steven J. Stien has worked with the FBI, American Express and even reality TV show Big Brother. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is so important that his lessons are useful for anyone. We explore: Diagnosing your EQ How to build EQ The biggest traits of success in the FBI, air force, army and navy The psychology of reality TV Cross-cultural differences in EQ How to train Empathy If you are interested in lear...

Mar 22, 202458 min

True Wisdom: Knowing vs Walking the path

A fresh look at what it means to be wise - beyond age and experience. Sam challenges and expands upon traditional views of wisdom, to redefine wisdom to be more useful and true. By examining how wisdom influences our life decisions and embracing a broader definition of wisdom, we invite listeners to reconsider their perceptions of wisdom. Personal wisdom begins with acknowledging that wisdom is not exclusively born from age or experience but emerges from making wise choices for personal happines...

Mar 19, 202416 min

Why are Near Death Experiences the Best Thing Ever? w/ Talia Lazarus

How massive trauma and facing life's fragile nature can lead to people to be truly alive. Near-death experiences can build a positive psychology and the tools for a growth mindset. With my guest Talia Lazarus, we explore the essence of the Phoenix Phenomenon and rising from the ashes renewed. We share stories of resilience, the science behind post-traumatic growth, and practical strategies for leveraging life’s toughest moments to foster an unbreakable spirit. Topics include: Capturing the power...

Mar 15, 202454 min

Do the THING

How to take action and get things done. A simple strategy to find clarity on what is important: Being busy vs being productive Eliminate distractions Become accountable to your own priorities Stop being controlled by deadlines No more getting bogged down in being busy, without meaningful progress. Cut through all the productivity advice and get to the heart of doing the thing you need to do. Nothing fancy. - - Growth Mindset pod Sam Webster Harris explores the psychology of happiness, satisfacti...

Mar 12, 202427 min

Attract and Choose the Right Partner

Find a compatible partner for long-term happiness. Choosing the right partner is important. We cover everything you need to know: 🙌 Increase the quality of potential partners 🙈 Avoid common dating mistakes ☠️ Early signs of toxic partners 😵‍💫 Unlearn relationship myths 🗺️ Optimal search theory The episode is about the art and science of attracting and choosing the right partner. Discover 12 transformative tools designed to elevate the quality of individuals you draw into your life, ensure m...

Mar 08, 202435 min

Improve Your Self-Worth | Author Jonathon Aslay

The essentials of improving self-worth for better relationships and the practices for self-love that pave the way to finding and keeping love. Jonathon Aslay is known as America's leading mid-life relationships coach and is the author of "What the Heck is Self-Love Anyway?" Jonathon sheds light on the importance of self-reflection in dating and how to become someone of worth to others. Learn: the secrets to finding the right partner in modern dating identifying deal-breakers in potential partner...

Mar 05, 202445 min

How to Stop Catastrophizing

Learn how to battle intrusive thoughts and create more peace in your mind and in your relationships. We cover the natural thinking pathways that lead to catastrophizing behaviours and how they become overused. We can then address how to start building healthier behaviours that reduce and calm our worries instead of amplifying them. This is an incredible game-changer for relationships as well as helping improve your social life and work life once you can better control your worries and fears befo...

Mar 01, 202440 min

Master Superior Conversation w/ Topaz Azides

Conversation drives the mechanics of love and connection. We talk with Topaz Adizes, the brilliant mind behind '12 Questions for Love' to increase the quality of our conversations. We explore the methodology behind asking the right questions to foster deeper intimacy and understanding in relationships. Topaz Azides is an Emmy award-winning film director, experience designer, and founder of Skin Deep. He shares his insights on engineering experiences that enrich our emotional bonds and the import...

Feb 27, 20241 hr

Life Lesson: Unlearning Behaviours

What makes you... you? How much of that can you decide? These are the big questions we tackle in this short Life Lesson bonus episode for some ideas to percolate over the weekend and take forward with us. From the attachment styles we learnt as children to our accents and even how we think about learning. These are all behaviours that are up to us if we choose to be pro-active about how we show up in life and who we want to be. We'll learn how to act consistently with compounding behaviours over...

Feb 25, 202419 min

Creating Healthy Boundaries

We clear the complex waters of setting healthy boundaries in relationships, a masterclass designed to empower you with the tools for understanding and creating boundaries that foster freedom and respect. Join us as we navigate the nuances of recognizing and avoiding porous or rigid boundaries and understand the impact of weak boundaries on personal well-being. We explore strategies for balancing personal needs with those of others, ensuring your relationships are built on a foundation of mutual ...

Feb 23, 202442 min