Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement
Sam Webster Harris | Growth Mindset Psychology
Most self-help advice is guesswork dressed up as wisdom. We dig into psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science to find what actually changes lives.
WHY LISTEN?
Over 8 million downloads because we answer the questions that matter: How do I build mental strength? What creates lasting motivation? How can I understand my own mind well enough to work with it, not against it?
This podcast is for curious skeptics who want frameworks backed by psychology studies, not Instagram quotes. Whether you're navigating procrastination, building self-discipline, or designing your own philosophy for a life well lived—we explore the hidden psychology behind real change.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
Mental models and simple techniques from cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and ancient wisdom traditions like Stoicism and Buddhism.
Being a human can be confusing, learning about it doesn’t have to be.
We cover everything from emotional intelligence and habit formation to brain health and the nervous system.
WHAT YOU DON’T GET
No pseudoscience. No oversimplified "hacks." No hustle porn.
Just practical insights on mindset improvement, self-development, and human psychology that respect your intelligence and mental health.
THE APPROACH
Instead of telling you what to think, we explore how thinking works. Armed with psychology studies, social science research, and relentless curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of belief change, attitude change, and personal development.
Success is personal. You might want to leverage your neurodiverse strengths, build a business, or simply discover how to be happier. We provide the mental frameworks to pursue your definition of success with mental strength and self-care that fits your life.
YOUR HOST
I'm Sam Webster Harris—a lifelong learner with ADHD and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions. After launching businesses, traveling the world, and nearly dying a few times, I concluded that psychology and science are where real wisdom lives.
This show is my excuse to dive deep into health and fitness research, behavioral psychology, and cool science while helping you build genuine self-discipline and motivation.
PREMIUM
Go ad-free and access exclusive content, AMAs, and our community Discord.
Growth Mindset Premium
PAST SERIES
Previous 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 and Relationships
— Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets
— Addiction and Behaviour Change
— Nervous System Mastery and Polyvagal Theory
— Mental Strength and Self-Discipline
WHY LISTEN?
Over 8 million downloads because we answer the questions that matter: How do I build mental strength? What creates lasting motivation? How can I understand my own mind well enough to work with it, not against it?
This podcast is for curious skeptics who want frameworks backed by psychology studies, not Instagram quotes. Whether you're navigating procrastination, building self-discipline, or designing your own philosophy for a life well lived—we explore the hidden psychology behind real change.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
Mental models and simple techniques from cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and ancient wisdom traditions like Stoicism and Buddhism.
Being a human can be confusing, learning about it doesn’t have to be.
We cover everything from emotional intelligence and habit formation to brain health and the nervous system.
WHAT YOU DON’T GET
No pseudoscience. No oversimplified "hacks." No hustle porn.
Just practical insights on mindset improvement, self-development, and human psychology that respect your intelligence and mental health.
THE APPROACH
Instead of telling you what to think, we explore how thinking works. Armed with psychology studies, social science research, and relentless curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of belief change, attitude change, and personal development.
Success is personal. You might want to leverage your neurodiverse strengths, build a business, or simply discover how to be happier. We provide the mental frameworks to pursue your definition of success with mental strength and self-care that fits your life.
YOUR HOST
I'm Sam Webster Harris—a lifelong learner with ADHD and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions. After launching businesses, traveling the world, and nearly dying a few times, I concluded that psychology and science are where real wisdom lives.
This show is my excuse to dive deep into health and fitness research, behavioral psychology, and cool science while helping you build genuine self-discipline and motivation.
PREMIUM
Go ad-free and access exclusive content, AMAs, and our community Discord.
Growth Mindset Premium
PAST SERIES
Previous 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 and Relationships
— Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets
— Addiction and Behaviour Change
— Nervous System Mastery and Polyvagal Theory
— Mental Strength and Self-Discipline
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 20, 2026 • 54min
How To Build Free Will
Explore the complexities of free will, revealing it to be much smaller and stranger than it seems. Discover how behaviors are often automatic, influenced by pain and social pressure rather than conscious choice. Delve into the idea that while we can't select our thoughts, we can decide our responses, a concept popularized by Viktor Frankl. Learn practical strategies for cultivating awareness, managing strong emotions, and transforming reactive impulses into personal growth. The journey encourages a deeper understanding of autonomy and resilience.
Jan 16, 2026 • 20min
5 Surprising Truths About Independence and Being Yourself: What really impacts who you are
Dive into the intriguing concept that you aren’t merely a byproduct of those around you. Explore how true growth stems from autonomy, not just assimilation. Hear personal stories of unexpected friendships that provide balance. Discover how selectively picking traits can enhance your life, while encountering diverse perspectives keeps you grounded. The conversation also challenges the notion of peer influence and celebrates the joy of individualized ambitions.
Jan 13, 2026 • 23min
Life's Infinite Games: How to play by your own rules
Life is a series of games, and each choice has its stakes. The discussion explores how we often play by societal rules, such as on LinkedIn, and encourages seeking independence over approval. Three modes of engagement are introduced: machine, intelligent, and zen. Listeners learn to focus on authenticity rather than performance, urging them to select their own games. With advice from his profile and reflections on perception, the host motivates listeners to reflect on their true selves.
Jan 6, 2026 • 38min
4 Steps to Become Remarkable: A guide to overhaul your life
Discover practical steps to reclaim your life with a four-month overhaul plan. Learn to prioritize your values, automate mundane tasks, and cultivate daily habits for personal growth. Explore how creating space in your calendar can shift you from busy to remarkable. Get tips on drafting a personal code and establishing rituals that align with your goals. Hear inspiring stories of career reinvention and the power of deep engagement in hobbies. Transform your aspirations into actionable projects that lead to meaningful change.
Dec 30, 2025 • 16min
Working with Time Instead of Against It - How to enjoy this year and every year of your life
Explore the idea that you have only about 4,000 weeks to live and why chasing efficiency might just add to your stress. Reflect on how your birthdays reveal your relationship with time and how calmness can be cultivated as a skill. Discover the power of meditation as a way to reclaim your time and intentions, and learn why resting intentionally can boost your overall productivity. Instead of fighting against time, find ways to work with it, making life more meaningful and manageable.
8 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 11min
5 Rules for Mental Health and Clarity - Andrew Huberman's simple formula for success
Discover the essential five rules for mental clarity and health. Prioritize quality sleep, aiming for 7-8 hours. Embrace daily movement with at least an hour of walking and some high-intensity workouts. Let in morning sunlight to regulate your sleep patterns and minimize evening blue light exposure. Focus on a diet rich in unprocessed foods, while also recognizing the power of social connections. Don’t forget hydration, an often-overlooked key to well-being. Master these basics for lasting success!
Dec 19, 2025 • 43min
Leaving a Legacy: What do we actually get remembered for - Lessons on family and life - [Storied Recipe]
Becky Hadid, host of The Storied Recipe, dives into a heartfelt narrative about her nan's pineapple upside-down cake—a symbol of love and consistency. She shares how this sweet ritual eased her food anxieties and created enduring connections. The discussion contrasts nurturing approaches with rigid control in childhood, showcasing the importance of consistent support. Becky reflects on her nan’s resilience as a blind baker and entrepreneur, highlighting how creativity fosters community, leaving a legacy that moves beyond mere recipes.
21 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 26min
The Regret Minimization Framework: How to make life decisions
Explore the idea that our lives are a series of temporary selves, each with unique dreams and desires. Discover the Regret Minimization Framework, inspired by Jeff Bezos, which encourages bold life choices over safe bets. Delve into the crucial distinction between peak and plateau experiences, understanding that some chances diminish with age. Learn to apply time bucketing in your life, ensuring you savor age-appropriate adventures while embracing urgency. Reflect on what experiences you might defer and act before those opportunities slip away.
12 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 44min
Cognitive Rigidity: 5 Lessons to build a flexible mind - [Cognitive Biases #6]
Dive into the fascinating world of cognitive rigidity and discover five mental traps that can hold you back. Uncover why we often value our own flawed ideas and how immediate gratification sabotages our long-term goals. Explore the impact of social conformity on decision-making. Learn how to overcome functional fixedness with creative thinking and break free from the traps of ownership and unfinished tasks. Plus, see how even great minds like Einstein struggled with flexibility. It's time to open the door to new possibilities!
Dec 9, 2025 • 37min
The Illusion of Control: 7 Ways we lie to ourselves that even defeated Napoleon - [Cognitive Biases #5]
Explore how our perceptions shape reality and can blind us to truth. Discover the fascinating 1951 study where sports fans saw the same game differently. Delve into the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon and its role in identifying opportunities. Learn how the placebo effect highlights the power of belief, echoing through historical figures like Napoleon. From the illusion of control in decision-making to the impact of contrast on value and happiness, this discussion dives deep into cognitive biases that influence our lives and choices.
