

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

Aug 3, 2024 • 47min
#072 Tanith Carey: Are You Feeling 'Blah'? Understanding Anhedonia and How to Rediscover Your Joy
In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Tanith Carey, a psychology author and Gestalt psychotherapist-in-training, to explore the often overlooked issue of anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure. Drawing from her latest book, "Feeling 'Blah'? Why Life Feels Joyless and How to Recapture Its Highs," Tanith delves into the relentless stressors of modern life and how they affect our brain's reward system, effectively taking it 'off line.'Tanith shares her personal journey with anhedonia and provides a deep understanding of how our high-speed, high-stress lifestyles contribute to this condition. Rather than pursuing the elusive concept of happiness, Tanith focuses on finding moments of joy in our challenging world. She offers actionable strategies to help listeners reclaim these moments despite the pressures of modern life.Join us as we uncover the biochemical underpinnings of joy and learn practical steps to navigate the complexities of the modern world, ensuring you can overcome anhedonia and find joy in everyday life. This insightful discussion is packed with expert advice and real-world solutions to help you reconnect with life's pleasures. Don't miss this episode if you're looking to transform your life and rediscover joy amid today's stressors.About this GuestWebsiteTwitterInstagramFacebookLinktreeLinkedInYouTubeListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3Feeling 'Blah'?: Why Life Feels Joyless and How to Recapture Its Highs by Tanith CareyOther books herePeople & Other Mentionsmesolimbic pathwayAndrew HubermanAnhedoniaADHDBurnoutFMRI ScanLearning to Listen, Listening to Learn: Building Essential Skills in Young Children by Mary Renck JalongoSupport the show

Jul 13, 2024 • 50min
#073 Anita Anello: How to Build Your Own Profitable Business in 6 Simple Steps?
Join host Cody McLain in this episode of the MindHack Podcast as he sits down with Anita Anello, an entrepreneur who successfully transitioned from a high-powered software executive to a homeschooling mom and thriving home-based business owner. Anita shares her journey of leaving the corporate world to seek greater freedom and fulfillment, and how she developed her 6-Step Blueprint to Build a Profitable Business. She provides practical insights and actionable advice for those looking to make a similar transition, highlighting the importance of identifying strengths, building a following, nurturing relationships, and presenting compelling offers.In addition, Anita introduces her Elite Entrepreneur Events Formula, a strategy designed to help entrepreneurs host virtual events that generate significant revenue. Discover how Anita balances business success with family life and empowers women to achieve their dreams. This episode is packed with valuable guidance on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and creating a profitable business while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.Whether you're contemplating a career change, starting your own business, or seeking ways to achieve a better work-life balance, this episode provides the motivation and tools you need to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey.About this GuestAnita Anello is an entrepreneur who transitioned from a high-powered software executive to a homeschooling mom and successful home-based business owner. With years of experience in the corporate world, Anita now leverages her expertise to empower women through her 6-Step Blueprint to Build a Profitable Business. She is dedicated to helping individuals turn their specialized knowledge into thriving consulting businesses. Anita's journey is marked by resilience, community building, and a passion for balancing professional success with family life. She also developed the Elite Entrepreneur Events Formula, designed to help entrepreneurs host virtual events that generate significant revenue. Anita's commitment to empowering others and her practical, actionable advice make her a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community. Guest LinksWebsiteElite Entrepreneurs VIPFacebookYouTubeListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3Free 6-Step Blueprint to Build A Profitable, Skills-Based BusinessPeople & Other MentionsJodi WellmanYou Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets by Jodi WellmanJodi Wellman InterviewCrushing It!: How Great Entrepreneurs Build Their Business and Influence—and How You Can, Too by Gary VaynerchukEverybody Writes: Your Go-To Guide for Creating Ridiculously Good Content by Ann HandleySupport the show

Jul 3, 2024 • 1h 40min
#068 Neville Medhora: Is Your Content Failing? Discover Expert Tips and Techniques
In this episode of the MindHack podcast, Cody McLain sits down with Neville Medhora, a renowned copywriting expert and the mastermind behind Kopywriting Kourse. Neville shares his journey from starting out in the world of copywriting to becoming a sought-after consultant and speaker. With his unique blend of humor and actionable insights, Neville delves into the art and science of persuasive writing, offering practical tips for creating impactful content and driving sales. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on managing time effectively, leveraging social media for growth, and using AI tools to enhance content creation.Neville also discusses his approach to building a sustainable business and maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. He reveals the strategies behind his successful content marketing, including how he structures interviews and outsources content production. Whether you're a writer, marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with expert advice and techniques to help you optimize your communication and achieve better results. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry.About this Guest:Neville Medhora is a renowned copywriting expert and the founder of Kopywriting Kourse. He specializes in transforming words into powerful tools that drive sales and engage audiences, making complex copywriting techniques accessible and enjoyable for everyone.WebsiteTwitterInstagramYouTubeNevBlogListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as am MP3You're Gonna Die: A Framework for Happiness by Neville MedhoraPeople & Other Mentions:HyperfuryDan Martell InterviewAlex HormoziMrBeastJoe RoganAndrew HubermanLex FridmanParis Hiltoncopy.aiMidjourneyChatGPTClaudeDan ShipperCanvaHustle NewsletterfiverrUpworkSwipefile.comCommonplace bookNotionObsidian Writing AppEvernoteGoogle KeepSupport the show

Jun 1, 2024 • 1h 15min
#070 Dr. John Bargh: Think You’re in Control? Think Again! The Hidden Forces Behind Your Choices
In this enlightening episode of the MindHack Podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of the unconscious mind with Dr. John Bargh, a leading expert and professor of psychology at Yale University. Why do we make the decisions we do? What influences our choices beyond our conscious awareness? Dr. Bargh takes us on a journey through the unseen forces that shape our everyday actions and decisions.From the subtle impacts of environmental cues to the profound effects of our internal instincts, this conversation explores how our gut feelings and unconscious processes guide us more than we might realize. Dr. Bargh shares insights from his groundbreaking research and his acclaimed book, "Before You Know It: The Unconscious Reasons We Do What We Do," providing practical advice on how to harness the power of our subconscious for better decision-making and improved well-being.About this Guest:WebsiteACME Lab YaleBefore You Know It: The Unconscious Reasons We Do What We Do by Dr. John BarghOther books herePeople & Other Mentions:Professor Michael S. GazzanigaRoger Sperry’s Split Brain ExperimentsJoseph E. LeDouxAntonio DamasioDescartes' Error: Emotion, Reason, and the Human Brain by Antonio DamasioWilliam JamesThinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel KahnemanAmos TverskyCognitive Reflection Test (CRT) | Shane FrederickDick ButkusNewsletters | Superhuman | Neuron | TLDR LLMs | ChatGPT | Claude AI | Llama AI ELIZA ChatbotThe Turing TestJeffrey GrayHannah ArendtThe Life of the Mind: The Groundbreaking Investigation on How We Think by Hannah ArendtTimothy WilsonAmbady and RosenthalLove is BlindUmax AppSupport the show

May 17, 2024 • 1h 3min
#069 Rob Dube: Unlocking True Entrepreneurial Freedom without Burning Out
In this episode of the Mind Hack Podcast, host Cody McLain interviews Rob Dube, co-author of "Shine: How Looking Inward Is the Key to Unlocking True Entrepreneurial Freedom." Rob shares deep insights on integrating mindfulness into leadership and balancing personal well-being with professional success. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, he discusses common entrepreneurial struggles like burnout and internal conflict despite external success. Rob highlights the importance of understanding one's 'inner story' and leading from the heart, introducing his 10 disciplines that promote inner peace, energy, and impact. The conversation explores fear-based decision-making, true self-awareness, and creating a business culture that prioritizes employee well-being. Cody and Rob also examine the pitfalls of hustle culture and the importance of being present with oneself and others. The episode wraps up with practical advice on living a fulfilled life by adhering to core values. Listeners are encouraged to read Rob's book and visit his website for further resources.About this Guest:WebsiteTwitterInstagramLeading with Genuine Care podcastImage OneListen on Apple PodcastListen on SpotifyDownload as an MP3Shine: How Looking Inward Is the Key to Unlocking True Entrepreneurial Freedom by Rob Dube & Gino WickmanOther books herePeople & Other Mentions:Gino WickmanMichael A. Freeman,M.D.Driven: Understanding and Harnessing the Genetic Gifts Shared by Entrepreneurs, Navy SEALs, Pro Athletes, and Maybe YOU by Dr. Doug BrackmanAndrew HubermanThe Second Mountain by David BrooksSmall Giants CommunityTugboat InstituteConscious CapitalismMan's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. FranklSupport the show

May 10, 2024 • 52min
#067 Jodi Wellman: Living Without Regrets Can Embracing Mortality Change Everything?
In this thought-provoking episode of the MindHack Podcast, we delve into a topic that touches us all yet is often left unspoken: mortality. Join us as we welcome Jodi Wellman, a renowned life and leadership coach and the author of "You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets." Jodi shares her unique insights on how facing our finite nature can dramatically transform our daily lives and lead us to a path of true fulfillment.Discover practical strategies for breaking free from the autopilot of day-to-day existence and learn how to infuse every moment with intention and joy. Jodi explains the profound impact of counting our "Mondays," exploring how this simple practice can motivate us to make more meaningful choices and pursue a life without regrets.Whether you’re seeking to enrich your personal life, enhance your mindfulness, or find that spark to ignite profound changes, this episode offers the tools and inspiration needed to start living more fully. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine what it means to live well in the face of life's ultimate certainty.About this Guest:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramYou Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets by Jodi WellmanPeople & Other Mentions: The Eternal ReturnFriedrich NietzscheRyan HolidayLife Calendar AppOne SE AppExist.io AppTim Urban Wait but Why Life CalendarSelf-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristen NeffWeCroak AppMaslow’s Hierarchy of Human NeedsSupport the show

Apr 26, 2024 • 55min
#059 Deb Smolensky: Brain On! Unleash Your Brain's Full Potential
In this enlightening episode of the MindHack podcast, host Cody McLain engages in conversation with Deb Smolensky, an acclaimed expert in human performance and workplace well-being. They dive into the essential themes of her book "Brain On!," which advocates for the significance of mental fitness in improving focus, energy, and overall productivity during the workday. Deb shares insights on the necessity of managing our brain's energy, incorporating white space in our schedules to avert burnout, and offers practical strategies for emotional regulation and mindfulness. The discussion also delves into the challenges and emerging trends in embedding mental fitness into corporate culture to cultivate environments that support both efficiency and well-being. This episode is packed with valuable knowledge for anyone aiming to enhance their mental agility and flourish in today's fast-paced environment.Deb Smolensky's expertise is evident as she discusses the vital role of mental fitness in navigating the complexities of modern work life. With her innovative approach, she provides useful tips on managing energy, combating stress, and rewiring our brains for optimal performance. The conversation also highlights the importance of self-awareness, the power of pausing, and the need to integrate mental well-being into organizational practices. Whether you're an individual seeking personal growth or a leader striving to create a healthier workplace, this episode offers actionable advice and insightful perspectives on boosting mental fitness in our daily lives.About this Guest:WebsiteTwitterLinkedInBrain On!: Mental Fitness Strategies for Sharpening Focus, Boosting Energy, and Winning the Workday People & Other Mentions:When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel PinkDaylio AppHow Do We Feel AppThe Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the Age of Information Overload by Daniel J. LevitinFundamental Attribution ErrorDr. David RockNeuroLeadership InstituteHeadspaceGallupGinger AppInsight TimerSupport the show

Mar 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
#061 Justin Bean: The Climate Tech Revolution Building Sustainable Abundance
In this engaging episode of The Mind Hack Podcast, host Cody McLain delves into a conversation with Justin Bean, author of "What Could Go Right?" They explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence on the future of work and the pivotal role it plays in addressing climate change. Justin shares his take on these surging industries, highlighting how technological advancements can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable world, and provide unprecedented opportunity for those who help build it.The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of capitalism, the rise of distributed economies, and the importance of redefining value exchange. Justin emphasizes the power of leveraging one's skills and privileges to drive meaningful change and contribute to a sustainable future. This episode is a call to action for listeners to embrace innovation and optimism to realize the opportunity in addressing societal and environmental challenges.More on Justin Bean:WebsiteTwitterLinkedInWhat Could Go Right: Designing Our Ideal Future to Emerge from Continual Crises to a Thriving World by Justin Bean People and other mentions:Redwood MaterialsThe Zero Marginal Cost Society: The Internet of Things, the Collaborative Commons, and the Eclipse of Capitalism by Jeremy RifkinMark ZuckerbergPeter ThielGround NewsLife 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max TegmarkHow to Save the World: How to Make Changing The World The Greatest Game We've Ever Played by Katie PatrickFriedrich NietzscheAlbert CamusMaslow'sHierarchy of NeedsSupport the show

Mar 21, 2024 • 48min
#066 Guy Kawasaki: Think Remarkable Let's Dive into the Mind of a Visionary
In this captivating episode of the MindHack Podcast, host Cody McLain engages in a profound conversation with Guy Kawasaki, a visionary in the tech landscape and master evangelist. Known for his instrumental role in marketing Apple's Macintosh and his impactful books like 'Wise Guy' and 'The Art of the Start 2.0', Guy shares his wisdom on transforming lives and making a meaningful difference.We delve into his latest work, 'Think Remarkable', acclaimed by Jane Goodall for its call to elevate our lives and positively impact the world. Guy discusses embracing change, the power of a growth mindset, and the importance of making a difference to be truly remarkable. Join us as we explore Guy's insights on innovation, marketing, and the journey to leading a fulfilling life.More on Guy Kawasaki:WebsiteFacebookYouTubeTwitterInstagramLinkedInThink Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a DifferenceOther books hereBooks and other interesting mentions:CanvaMacintoshRemarkable People PodcastJane GoodallCarol DweckBob CialdiniKristi YamaguchiAndrea Lytle PeetReed HastingsKodakTheranosSupport the show

Mar 14, 2024 • 56min
#065 Matt Zemon: Beyond the Trip Diving Deep into the World of Psychedelic Healing
Join us for an enlightening episode of the MindHack podcast with special guest Matt Zemon, author of 'Psychedelics For Everyone' and a leading voice in the psychedelic movement. Dive into the fascinating world of psychedelic therapy, as Matt shares his personal journey, insights on the therapeutic use of psychedelics, and the future of mental wellness. Explore how these powerful substances are transforming lives and expanding consciousness, and discover the potential they hold for healing and personal growth. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of psychedelics and their role in shaping a new paradigm for mental health.More on Matt Zemon:WebsiteTwitterInstagramLinkedInPsychedelics For Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to these Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding ConsciousnessOther books hereBooks and other interesting mentions:PsychableJoe Rogan EpisodeTerence McKennaStoned Ape TheoryEleusinian MysteriesThe Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name by Brian C. MurareskuMDMA (Ecstacy)PsilocybinMicrodosing CollectiveA Really Good Day: How Microdosing Made a Mega Difference in My Mood, My Marriage, and My Life by Ayelet WaldmanDr. Ben Malcolm | Spirit PharmacistPsychedelic Pharmacist Associationthe dharmacist | Dr. Trina NguyenMAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies)Heroic Hearts ProjectSupport the show


