Community, Connection, and Consequences

In this eye-opening episode of Passion Struck, host John R. Miles sits down with Dr. Sandra Matz, a psychologist and data scientist, to reveal the invisible forces shaping your thoughts, decisions, and behaviors. From social media algorithms to targeted advertising, we explore how data-driven systems are quietly hacking your free will—often without you even realizing it.

Dr. Matz, author of Mind Masters: The Data-Driven Science of Predicting and Changing Human Behavior, exposes the dark side of personalization, how AI exploits human psychology, and what you can do to take back control of your mind and choices.

Link to the full show notes:  https://passionstruck.com/sandra-matz-on-the-silent-war-on-your-free-will/

Key takeaways:

• How big data and AI predict your next move
• The psychological tricks that influence your decisions
• Why your digital footprint is more revealing than you think
• The hidden dangers of online personalization
• How to reclaim your autonomy in the digital age

Connect with Sandra Matz: https://business.columbia.edu/faculty/people/sandra-matz

Sponsors:

• Factor Meals: http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF
• Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
• Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
• Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
• Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
• Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION

Next on Passion Struck:
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Natalie Namaste, a thought leader and personal transformation, to explore how to break free from perfectionism and self-doubt, the key to embracing authenticity and rewriting limiting beliefs and practical tools to cultivate inner confidence and a life filled with meaning. This is a conversation that will inspire you to let go of what's holding you back and step boldly into the life you were meant to live.

For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.

Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow.  Learn more and sign up here.

Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at johnrmiles.com/speaking.

Episode Starter Packs With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at passionstruck.com/starterpacks.

Catch More of Passion Struck:

• My solo episode on The Science of Healthy Habits
• My episode with Jason O’Mara on Finding Strength in the Face of Setbacks
• Can't miss my episode with Stefanie Wilder-Taylor on Loving and Leaving Alcohol
• Catch my interview with Dr. Elisa Hallerman on How You Reconnect With Your Soul
• Listen to my solo episode on 7 Reasons Why Acts of Kindness Are More than Meets the Eye

If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.

How to Connect with John:

Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. For more insights and resources, visit John’s website.

Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.