

MindHack
Cody McLain
What happens when you give an overthinking entrepreneur a microphone, a curiosity obsession, and access to the sharpest minds on the planet? You get MindHack - the podcast for founders, builders, and high-performers who want to upgrade their brain like they upgrade their software. Each week, Cody McLain (entrepreneur since 15, burnout survivor, and productivity nerd) sits down with scientists, psychologists, and successful entrepreneurs to reverse-engineer how extraordinary people think, feel, and execute. We unpack the mental models, weird routines, emotional rewiring, and psychology-backed strategies that actually work—so you can build your business without losing your mind. 🎯 Think: startup grit meets cognitive science. 🎙️ Guests include bestselling authors, startup OGs, and unreasonably curious humans. 🔥 Warning: listening may result in existential clarity, better habits, and fewer panic Googles at 2am. New episodes every week. Subscribe and hack your brain before your brain hacks you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 2min
#086 Sari Azout: Why Imagination Beats Skills in an AI Powered World
Everyone's obsessed with using AI to be more productive—but what if we've got it all wrong? In this mind-blowing conversation with Sublime founder Sari Azout, we uncover why the "move faster" mindset might actually be making us miserable.Sari drops truth bombs about why imagination—not technical skills—will be the career superpower of the future. She reveals how the most successful people will use AI differently than everyone else, and why being willing to be bored might become the ultimate luxury.We explore the surprising reason many tech leaders don't let their own kids use the products they create, and how to build a personal knowledge system that gives you an unfair advantage in an AI world. If you're feeling overwhelmed by productivity culture, this episode will completely change how you think about technology.ℹ️ About the GuestSari Azout is the founder of Sublime, a personal knowledge management tool designed to help people curate and connect ideas in meaningful ways. In her thought-provoking essay "The End of Productivity," she challenges conventional thinking about AI and productivity—questioning whether our obsession with efficiency is actually preventing us from doing our best work. With Sublime, she's building technology that focuses on deepening intention rather than hijacking attention, creating a refreshing alternative in today's distraction-driven digital landscape.X - @sariazoutInstagram - @sariazoutbakaiTunesSpotifyDownload MP3👨💻 People & Other MentionsSari Azout - Founder of SublimeSublime - Personal knowledge management tool"The End of Productivity" Essay by Sari Azout - Essay mentioned in the podcastCal Newport - Author known for "Deep Work" conceptMark Andreessen - Mentioned regarding creativity and executionSteve Jobs - Referenced regarding children's technology useMorning Brew Newsletter - Newsletter mentioned in discussionBlaise Pascal - Quoted: "All of man's problems stem from his inability to sit quietly in a room alone"Linus Torvalds - Creator of Linux, mentioned regarding creativity and intrinsic motivationJiro Dreams of Sushi - Documentary film referenced regarding mastery and dedicationSupport the show

Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
#085 Dr Beth McDougall: Body Intelligence The Science of Healing Yourself
Your Body's Secret "Source Code" That Big Medicine Doesn't Want You to Access! Dr. Beth McDougall exposes the hidden intelligence within you that conventional doctors miss entirely. After solving thousands of "impossible" health cases over 25+ years, she's uncovered the shocking truth about your body's "pristine blueprint" – an energetic template that could transform how you heal forever.Beth McDougall, MD is contributing to an emerging medical paradigm at the intersection of medicine and contemporary physics and describes health in the larger context of our relationship to the life force that informs, animates, and connects us all. Thinking about health in this larger context provides solutions for reversing disease, slowing aging, and optimizing our lives.From Defeating Her Own Lyme Disease to Running San Francisco's Most Elite Health Clinic! Get the same actionable strategies Dr. McDougall uses with her high-performance clients. Learn the simple body-listening technique that outperforms expensive medical tests, and unlock your body's natural healing superpowers that could add decades of vibrant health to your life!ℹ️ About the GuestDr. Beth McDougall, pioneering physician and medical detective, joins us today. Follow her @bethmcdougallmd on Instagram where she shares cutting-edge insights on health optimization. Her latest book "Your Pristine Blueprint" reveals how our bodies contain an encoded intelligence that can revolutionize healing when properly accessed. As Chief Medical Officer at JYZEN, she's collaborated with top biophysicists to create what many consider the most comprehensive bio-optimization center in the world.Instagram: @bethmcdougallmdYoutube WebsiteiTunesSpotifyDownload MP3👨💻 People & Other MentionsYour Pristine Blueprint - BookJYZEN - Dr. McDougall's medical and human performance center in San FranciscoDr. Peter Attia - Mentioned for his proactive healthcare approachDr. Andrew Huberman - Referenced regarding morning light exposureBrian Johnson - Mentioned for his extreme longevity experiments and "Blueprint" protocolDr. Rhonda Patrick - Referenced regarding heat shock proteins and sauna usageSupport the show

Mar 18, 2025 • 58min
#083 Michael Sullivan: Language Learning Unlocked Why Apps Aren't Enough
"I've been doing Duolingo for over a year, completed the entire Spanish course, and still can't hold a conversation." Sound familiar? In this myth-busting episode, language teacher Michael Sullivan reveals the crucial missing piece in your language learning journey—human connection.Discover why your brain needs more than gamified apps to achieve fluency, the exact moment when you stop translating in your head, and why that embarrassment you feel is actually your biggest barrier to mastery. Michael shares why language families matter, how Portuguese took him just weeks after mastering Spanish, and the counterintuitive reason why being tired might actually improve your speaking skills.Whether you've hit the dreaded app plateau or feel like a five-year-old when attempting conversation, Michael offers science-backed daily practices that build true fluency without the burnout. Learn why 20 minutes daily trumps weekend cramming, when AI tools actually help, and the unexpected technique that will have you thinking in your target language faster than you thought possible.ℹ️ About the GuestMichael Sullivan, a language teacher who proves anyone can master a new language with the right approach. After mastering Spanish, he picked up Portuguese in just months. Michael teaches at Speak Better Spanish, where he helps students overcome the app-learning plateau through real human connection.LinkedInDownload MP3iTunesSpotify👨💻 People & Other MentionsSpeak Better Spanish - Michael's teaching platformiTalki - Recommended platform for finding language teachersAnki - Mentioned as a spaced repetition system appDuolingo - Language learning appRosetta Stone - Language learning platformMemorise/Memrise - Language learning platformSupport the show

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 20min
#082 Leanne Whitney: Calm Your Mind Ancient Wisdom for Modern Anxiety
In this episode of MindHack, I speak with Dr. Leanne Whitney, a leading researcher in comparative psychology who bridges Western psychological insights with Eastern wisdom traditions.Dr. Whitney explains how anxiety often stems from disconnection between mind and body, revealing why traditional approaches to managing thoughts often fail. She unpacks the critical difference between Western psychology's view of ego and yoga's perspective on consciousness, offering practical insights on breaking free from destructive thought patterns.We explore how breath work directly impacts the nervous system, discuss the dangers of spiritual bypassing, and examine why many people get trapped in cycles of seeking external validation. Dr. Whitney shares specific techniques to establish safety in your body as the foundation for psychological healing.Whether you're struggling with daily stress or seeking deeper self-understanding, this conversation provides clear, actionable tools to transform your relationship with anxiety.ℹ️ About the GuestDr. Leanne Whitney is a pioneer in bridging Eastern wisdom with Western psychology, guiding individuals to transform anxiety through mind-body integration. Find her on Instagram @drleannewhitney, where she shares practical tools for nervous system regulation. Her groundbreaking book, Consciousness in Jung and Patanjali, explores how ancient yogic practices offer solutions to modern psychological challenges that traditional therapy often misses. Her work has been featured through published research and public dialogues on depth psychology and consciousness, where she brings an integrative approach to self-realization, healing, and transformation.Website InstagramFacebook LinkedIn Download MP3iTunesSpotify👨💻 People & Other MentionsCarl JungPatanjali's Yoga SutraSam HarrisDeepak Chopra4,000 Weeks by Oliver BurkemanJohn WellwoodInternal Family Systems by Richard SchwartzRobert FalconerDan SiegelBill W. - AA FounderYogi BikramMa Anand SheelaJay ShettyKeith Raniere - NXIVMHeartMath InstituteSupport the show

Mar 3, 2025 • 57min
#081 Trish Kendall: How to Overcome Addiction and Create Success
Trish Kendall, an international keynote speaker and expert on enduring success, shares her harrowing journey from childhood trauma and meth addiction to becoming a beacon of hope. She discusses the vital role of love and empathy in overcoming personal struggles and emphasizes the importance of being present in relationships. Trish highlights how simple joys can lead to extraordinary moments and stresses the significance of connection and mentorship in recovery. Her inspiring story showcases the transformative choices that can lead anyone to a fulfilling life.

Feb 25, 2025 • 1h
#084 Siim Land: Unlocking Longevity Secrets to Living Longer
In this episode of MindHack, I explore the science of enhancing longevity and health span, leveraging both lifestyle modifications and cutting-edge research to improve how your body ages. We delve into the biological components of aging, discussing how factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can influence your health span. I also outline tools to implement these changes in your daily routine, such as monitoring blood work regularly and incorporating certain supplements that support overall health. Additionally, I address the often-overlooked aspect of social connections and how they impact long-term health benefits. MindHack episodes are approximately 60 minutes long and focus on key scientific insights and actionable takeaways to help you optimize your health, enhance productivity, or improve well-being. New episodes are released weekly. ℹ️ About this GuestSiim Land is a renowned health and longevity expert, author, and public speaker, best known for his work on optimizing health span and extending lifespan through lifestyle interventions. With a background in anthropology and a passion for science, Siim combines ancestral wisdom with cutting-edge research to provide practical strategies for healthy aging. His work focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health and longevity, helping them achieve optimal well-being and live longer, healthier lives. Through his writing, speaking engagements, and online platforms, Siim continues to inspire and educate others on the science of longevity and the art of living well.WebsiteX/TwitterInstagramFacebookLinkedIn The Longevity Leap Listen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3Other books here👨💻 People & Other MentionsDr. Peter AttiaAndrew HubermanBrian JohnsonViktor Frankl Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklJournal of American Heart Association Support the show

Feb 16, 2025 • 1h 4min
#080 Jay Papasan: Why Most People Fail at Focus The ONE Thing You’re Missing
What’s holding you back from achieving extraordinary results? In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we dive deep with Jay Papasan, bestselling author of The ONE Thing, to uncover the secret to mastering focus and achieving success. Jay’s groundbreaking framework has transformed the lives of millions by helping them cut through the noise of daily distractions and discover their ONE thing—the priority that drives extraordinary outcomes.Join us as Jay shares the origin story of The ONE Thing, his collaboration with Gary Keller, and the research behind their powerful productivity principles. We explore the domino effect of small wins, why multitasking is sabotaging your success, and how to identify and take action on what truly matters. Jay also reveals his personal strategies for aligning daily habits with long-term goals, the role of core values in decision-making, and why thinking big is the first step to creating a purposeful life.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a busy professional, or simply someone striving for more clarity in a chaotic world, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you focus on what matters most. Learn why most people fail at focus—and discover the ONE thing you’re missing to unlock your potential.🎧 Tune in now to start transforming your mindset, mastering your focus, and building a life that truly matters!ℹ️ About this GuestJay Papasan is a bestselling author, speaker, and productivity expert, best known for co-authoring The ONE Thing with Gary Keller. With a background in publishing and years of experience as Vice President of Strategic Content at Keller Williams Realty, Jay has mastered the art of simplifying complex ideas into practical, actionable strategies. His work focuses on helping individuals and businesses achieve extraordinary success by prioritizing what matters most. Through his writing, speaking, and coaching, Jay continues to inspire people worldwide to focus on their "one thing" and unlock their potential.WebsiteTwitterInstagramFacebookLinkedInThe One Thing WebsiteListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/4hyzitUThe ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results By Jay Papasan & Gary KellerOther books here👨💻 People & Other MentionsGary KellerMade to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Dan and Chip HeathAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearFedEx Delivers: How the World's Leading Shipping Company KeepsInnovating and Outperforming the Competition by Madan BirlaPrinciples: Life and Work by Ray DalioShane ParrishCharlie MungerRyan HolidayTime FerrisCodie SanchezPygmalion EffectSupport the show

Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 17min
#079 Jay Steinfeld: The Four E’s of Success How Blinds.com Became a Business Powerhouse | Ep. 079
What does it take to transform a small garage startup into the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds? In this episode, Cody McLain sits down with Jay Steinfeld, the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, to uncover the secrets behind his groundbreaking leadership philosophy—the Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy.Jay shares how these principles shaped Blinds.com’s journey from its humble beginnings to a $150 billion partnership with Home Depot, and why fostering a culture of continuous improvement, generosity, and experimentation was critical to its success.Discover how to build a thriving business culture, create meaningful customer experiences, and lead with authenticity—even in the face of adversity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or innovator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve your own business breakthrough. ℹ️ About this GuestJay Steinfeld is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and business leader who revolutionized the e-commerce industry as the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds. Launching the company from his garage in 1993, Jay built it into a market leader, culminating in its acquisition by Home Depot.A pioneer in business innovation, Jay is known for his leadership philosophy, “The Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy,” which he detailed in his book Lead from the Core: The Four Principles for Profit and Prosperity. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Jay is an Entrepreneur in Residence at Rice University, an advisor at UT Austin’s Herb Kelleher Entrepreneurship Center, and a sought-after speaker on leadership, culture, and innovation.Through his work, Jay has inspired countless individuals and organizations to embrace continuous improvement, create impactful cultures, and lead with authenticity and generosity.WebsiteTwitterInstagramLinkedInListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/4ghAMboLead from the Core By Jay Steinfeld 👨💻 People & Other MentionsUT Austin's Herb Keller Entrepreneurship CenterRice UniversityGive and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam GrantStephen CoveyThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick M. LencioniFrom Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLainEdwin CatmullSupport the show

Dec 1, 2024 • 49min
Cody McLain: The Purpose Paradox Why Having Everything Can Leave You Empty
What happens when you reach the summit of success, only to find yourself feeling empty? In this episode of the MindHack podcast, Cody McLain shares his personal journey of achievement, disillusionment, and discovery. Drawing from ancient wisdom, modern neuroscience, and his own hard-won insights, Cody unpacks the hidden flaws of our achievement-obsessed culture and reveals how to break free from the cycle of empty success.Explore how to shift your focus from external milestones to internal fulfillment, embrace the process of living with purpose, and find joy in the journey rather than the destination. Whether you’re grinding toward your goals or wondering why success doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you expected, this episode offers practical tools and timeless wisdom to help you redefine what it means to truly succeed.Listen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3ZtoJSdFrom Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLain 👨💻 People & Other Mentions Seneca the YoungerSteve JobsRobert SapolskyDaniel KahnemanProspect theoryIkigaiUbuntu PhilosophyViktor FranklLaura A. KingG.L.A.D TechniqueHeadspace AppCalm AppOne Second Everyday AppInsight Timer AppReflection AppDay One AppThích Nhất HạnhThe Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David BrooksThe Power of Meaning: Finding Fulfillment in a World Obsessed withHappiness by Emily Esfahani SmithJulia CameronThe Artist's Way by Julia CameronSupport the show

Nov 23, 2024 • 1h 8min
#078 Ben "Doc" Askins: Beyond the Hero’s Journey Overcoming Trauma and Finding Empathy
In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Ben "Doc" Askins, a former combat medic turned psychiatric physician assistant, who brings a wealth of experience in trauma therapy and unconventional healing. With nearly two decades in military medicine and a specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Ben challenges the traditional Hero’s Journey narrative and instead explores the path of the Anti-Hero—a journey that delves into the raw, real, and often messy truths of self-discovery. Through his unique insights, Ben shares how confronting trauma and embracing empathy are essential for true healing.This conversation is for anyone grappling with their own inner battles or seeking to make peace with past traumas. Together, we uncover practical steps to break free from self-deception, build meaningful connections, and find empathy not only for others but also for ourselves. Join us as we unpack a new approach to healing—one that is unfiltered, authentic, and ultimately empowering. ℹ️ About this Guest Ben "Doc" Askins is a former combat medic and psychiatric physician assistant with nearly two decades of experience in trauma care and therapy. Certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Ben blends traditional medicine with innovative approaches to healing. As the author of Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces, he challenges conventional narratives of growth, offering raw insights on trauma, empathy, and self-discovery. Through his work, Ben inspires others to confront their struggles and embrace authentic transformation.WebsiteClinical WebsiteFacebook PageYouTubeTwitterInstagramListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3B3UXKnAnti-Hero's Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces: A Warped War Memoir on the Way to Enlightenment By Ben "Doc" Askins 👨💻 People & Other Mentions Maps (MultiDisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies)The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell) by Joseph CampbellTranspersonal PsychologyDr. Stanislav "Stan" GrofCarl JungCarl Jung ShadowKarpman Drama TriangleTransactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: A Systematic Individual and Social Psychiatry by Eric BerneCatch-22 by Joseph HellerThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der KolkDefault Mode NetworkMDMASupport the show