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Hidden Brain

Fear Less

Mar 4, 2024
Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist specializing in the psychology of fear, dives into the complex and dual nature of fear in this enlightening discussion. He explores how fear can both protect us and hinder personal growth, illustrated through stories of stage fright and childhood anxieties. The conversation highlights the evolutionary roots of fear, its impact on decision-making, and innovative methods like mindfulness and exposure therapy to confront unwarranted fears. Ultimately, Javanbakht emphasizes that embracing fear can lead to resilience and empowerment.
51:51

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Fear is both a protective mechanism and a barrier to personal growth, demonstrating its dual role in our lives.
  • Anticipatory anxiety exacerbates fear, showing how past experiences can influence current perceptions of seemingly benign situations.

Deep dives

Carly Simon's Struggle with Stage Fright

Carly Simon has dealt with intense stage fright throughout her career, which often surfaced during performances. In an attempt to conquer her fear, she planned a series of concerts in large venues. During one memorable show in Pittsburgh, the audience offered support after she expressed her panic, allowing her to finish the performance. However, the pressure ultimately became overwhelming, resulting in her collapsing before a subsequent show and leading her to stop performing in public for several years.

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