
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
Latest episodes

Jul 12, 2024 • 53min
Thinking Fast and Slow: How to Make Better Decisions - [Cognitive Biases #6]
Psychologist Daniel Kahneman discusses cognitive biases like anchoring effect and availability heuristic, exploring the interplay between fast, intuitive System 1 and slow, rational System 2 thinking. Topics include prospect theory, peak-end rule, happiness, and better decision-making strategies for self-improvement.

Jul 9, 2024 • 24min
Unravelling the Step-By-Step Anatomy of Having Big Ideas
Discover the secrets behind big ideas and innovation from historical legends. Unravel the psychology of genius thinkers, consistency, and making things happen. Explore the power of feedback, persistence, and why Greek statues have tiny packages. Dive into the Growth Mindset for a masterclass in self-improvement.

Jul 5, 2024 • 22min
The Surprising Truth About Independence & Being Yourself
Explore how common self-improvement advice can be misleading. Learn about toxic vs healthy relationships and the dangers of conforming. Discover tools to develop a Growth Mindset and seek inspiration from diverse sources. Embrace being yourself and avoid group-think for personal growth.

Jul 2, 2024 • 54min
4 Mindsets Proven To Radically Improve Your Life w/ Ryan Gottfredson
Ryan Gottfredson, mindset researcher, discusses the 4 key mindsets for success in life and leadership. Topics cover fixed vs. growth mindsets, prevention vs. promotion mindsets, and inward vs. outward mindsets. The podcast explores how these mindsets impact behavior, relationships, and fear. Strategies for developing a growth mindset and building success are highlighted.

Jun 29, 2024 • 48min
Cognitive Rigidity: How Einstein Overcame The 5 Biases That Keep Us Stuck (You Can Too) - [#5 Cog biases]
Explore cognitive biases like functional fixedness and the endowment effect, with insights from Einstein's life. Learn how societal norms and the bandwagon effect influence decision-making. Discover strategies to overcome biases, achieve mental flexibility, and cultivate a growth mindset.

Jun 26, 2024 • 25min
Life's Infinite Games: Understanding Our Choices & Playing By Our Rules
Psychologist Sam Webster Harris delves into the concept of life as a series of games, urging listeners to define their own rules and motivations. He explores the interplay of Philosophy and Psychology, advocating for authenticity and self-amusement. Harris discusses the different 'modes' of engaging with life and challenges societal norms. The episode prompts a reevaluation of personal motivations and perceptions of success in life.

Jun 23, 2024 • 28min
Curious Psychology: Overcoming Cognitive Load, What Is Expectation Violation & How Reactance Theory Explains War
This podcast explores cognitive load theory, expectation violation, and the source of anger. They discuss the difference between intrinsic, extrinsic, and germane load, as well as the impact of expectation violation. The episode also touches on the link between anger and freedom perception, habits in content consumption, and book recommendations.

Jun 21, 2024 • 34min
How To Train Your Mind (Tip: It is NOT a muscle)
Discover why treating the brain like a muscle for success is a harmful myth. Explore the differences between brain and muscle training, and learn how to train the brain effectively. Uncover the biggest misunderstanding of Stoicism and embrace enjoyment for success by making challenging tasks enjoyable. Embrace personal education, find joy in learning, and unleash your full potential through engaging and fun learning experiences.

Jun 18, 2024 • 42min
Reality Distortions: How 7 Illusions of Perception Impact Everyone (Especially Napoleon) - [#4 Cog Biases]
Explore how cognitive biases influenced Napoleon's life, from selective perception to the placebo effect. Understand how biases can lead to success or downfall. Learn about the exposure effect, illusion of control, clustering illusion, and contrast effect. Dive into the impact of perception filters and cognitive biases on decision-making.

9 snips
Jun 16, 2024 • 22min
The Feynman Technique: Learn to Master Anything
Join Nobel Prize-winning Physicist Richard Feynman as he unveils his 4-step technique for mastering any topic by simplifying complexity. Learn how teaching can enhance learning outcomes and why using jargon may signal a lack of understanding. Dive into the psychology of self-improvement and uncover the secrets to true mastery.