
Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement
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.PROCESSInstead 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.HOSTI’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).PREMIUMGo Ad-Free and listen to exclusive content.Support the show and access the AMA features and community Discord.Growth Mindset PremiumARCHIVEPrevious 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
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Jul 17, 2025 • 29min
Loud Thoughts: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and the Default Mode Network [Archive]
Discover the intriguing world of the Default Mode Network and its connection to anxiety, depression, and ADHD. The discussion traces the evolution of brain research from Hans Berger's EEG to modern neuroscience. Explore how this brain network affects mental health and learn about innovative treatments, including the impact of meditation and psilocybin. The conversation highlights how understanding the DMN can inform psychiatric interventions and enhance emotional well-being.

10 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 13min
How to Create Perspective and Get Out of Your Own Way
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17 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 37min
The Creative Act: Rick Rubin's 12 Rules for Creativity and Being Yourself
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Jul 4, 2025 • 28min
Lessons Across Time: How to teach yourself, remember more and grow wiser
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8 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 36min
Attachment Theory and How to Avoid the Mistakes Everyone Makes When They Learn About It
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Jun 27, 2025 • 45min
Do You Think Like a Caveman? Surprising Mindset Lessons From History
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Jun 24, 2025 • 26min
5 Self-Limiting Beliefs that Hold You Back from Who You Want To Be
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Jun 20, 2025 • 49min
Concepts: How the Brain Constructs Reality, Emotional Experience and Who You Are - w/ Nicholas Shea
Nicholas Shea, a researcher from Oxford and King's College, dives into the fascinating mechanics of how our brains construct reality. He explains how concepts act as mental shortcuts, allowing for quick recognition and understanding. Shea highlights the interplay between emotion and decision-making, countering the belief that emotions compromise logic. He also tackles the evolution from simple ideas to complex concepts, influenced by social interaction and media consumption, revealing the depths of cognitive processing that shape our daily lives.

7 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 28min
When Your Brain Won’t Shut Up: A guide to internal peace and lasting focus
This discussion dives deep into the mental loops that hijack our attention, likening them to poorly designed software. It addresses the interplay between addiction and creativity, revealing how untrained minds can sabotage productivity. The idea of using 'internal repulsion' to break these thought patterns is introduced, transforming how we perceive self-sabotage. Listeners are urged to confront their fears and recognize addiction as a self-imposed barrier, ultimately empowering them to take control of their thoughts and forge a path toward personal growth.

4 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 27min
How to transcend your normal habits and routines to have original ideas
Explore how mental constraints can limit creativity and keep us trapped in routines. Discover the power of randomness to shake up your week and unlock new ideas. Learn how boredom can actually spark creativity, instead of being seen as a nuisance. Delve into the interplay between routine and spontaneity for personal growth. Finally, reflect on the importance of forgiveness as a way to release emotional anchors and live more freely. It's all about stepping out of the ordinary and into a world of possibilities!