

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

21 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 18min
5 Genius Mental Models From Poker to Help Master Life: Thinking In Bets
Explore genius decision-making strategies that draw from the world of poker! Learn from Annie Duke how mental models can enhance everyday choices. Discover transformative lessons about emotional control and rationality in life decisions. Unpack three key mental models for better decision-making and the value of luck versus effort. Finally, challenge your assumptions to foster personal growth and make wiser choices. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their decision-making game!

21 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 32min
How To Overcome Your Personal limits: Grow Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Uncover the hidden mental barriers that stifle personal growth. With insights into neuroplasticity, learn how anyone can enhance performance at any age. Discover inspiring stories of individuals who achieved remarkable feats later in life and challenge societal beliefs about aging. Shifting perspectives and embracing curiosity can break self-imposed limits. Explore the impact of environment on mindset and the essence of self-efficacy. It's time to raise your goals and tap into your true potential!

9 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 31min
What Are The Top 5 Reasons People Fail To Achieve Their Goals
Explore the fascinating psychology behind why we often fail to achieve our goals. Discover how task initiation paralysis impacted Charles Darwin's monumental projects. Learn about personal contracts and how they can boost your commitment, just like Victor Hugo's writing strategies. Understand the difference between effective and fluffy intentions, which can significantly change success rates for heart patients. Lastly, dive into practical tips for overcoming procrastination and enhancing accountability on your journey to achievement.

Jan 3, 2025 • 20min
The Life-Changing Magic of Actually Doing Stuff - Start 2025 Right
Discover the magic of transforming dreams into action. Dive into the pitfalls of procrastination and the importance of taking initiative. Explore the four burners theory and its implications for prioritizing goals. The host shares personal stories of creative successes and failures, illustrating the balance between quality and consistency in work. Embrace the journey toward mastery by committing to practice and reflection. It's time to stop planning and start doing!

27 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 24min
10 Powerful Stoic Questions: Review Your Year and Refocus your Life
Explore what it means to live a good life through powerful Stoic questions. Reflect on personal growth, turning obstacles into opportunities, and simplifying life for better focus. Confront fears that hold us back and embrace personal responsibility for true success. Delve into aligning daily choices with long-term goals, advocating for small changes over perfection. Discover how inner peace flows from self-awareness and meaningful action.

9 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 15min
Journey vs Destination: How to Optimise For The Right Things In Life
Discover why setting meaningful goals can steer you away from external pressures. Explore the significance of enjoying life's journey instead of fixating on destinations. Dive into the concept of a healthy relationship with money and how it fuels your personal adventures. Learn about resilience in pursuing goals, likened to strategic chess moves. Embrace the beauty in life's ups and downs through the 'rule of thirds,' highlighting the diverse emotional experiences that shape personal growth. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination!

Dec 20, 2024 • 32min
The Psychology of Buddy the Elf ☃️❄️🎅
Explore the psychological insights behind Buddy the Elf's infectious joy and its impact on social interactions. The discussion dives into attachment theory, cultural adaptation, and the celebration of individuality. Listeners are invited to reconsider stereotypes related to neurodivergence, as Buddy’s vibrant personality shines a light on authentic connections. Themes of family dynamics and joy underscore the importance of being true to oneself, particularly during the holiday season, promoting a ripple effect of positivity in our communities.

13 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 32min
Self-Help Vs. Real-Help: How to Actually Improve Your Life
Dive into the fascinating world of personal growth as the discussion critiques the self-help industry's superficiality. Discover the value of meaningful content and the emotional power of storytelling in fostering real change. Explore practical strategies for a healthier content diet and the importance of thoughtful engagement. With compelling book recommendations, learn how to build a solid foundation for growth and navigate the overload of modern information. Embrace a mindset focused on deep wisdom over quick fixes!

16 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 30min
The Psychology of FOMO - Why it's Getting Worse and What To Do About It
Explore the captivating psychology of FOMO, revealing its evolutionary roots and modern triggers. Discover how our digital lives fuel anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. Dive into the hidden costs of FOMO on mental health and relationships while learning to reclaim your focus. Embrace a mindset of abundance to combat stress and transform fear into joy. Finally, navigate the tension between present enjoyment and societal pressures to enrich your mental well-being.

Dec 10, 2024 • 19min
14 Habits Keeping You Poor
Discover the everyday habits that can keep you financially stuck. Learn about the dangers of procrastination and the importance of taking action today. From lifestyle inflation to the value of surrounding yourself with financially savvy individuals, this discussion unpacks common pitfalls. Explore how small, deliberate steps can lead to significant financial growth. Dive into the psychology of financial decision-making and how our beliefs influence our money management. It's all about making proactive choices to secure a better future!


