

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

Dec 6, 2024 • 44min
Free Will and the War Against Our Minds - Are We Becoming NPCs?
Explore the intriguing concept of non-player characters in human behavior and how societal pressures shape our thinking. From conformists to contrarians, discover how mindsets can become automated by external influences. The discussion delves into the impact of misinformation, especially regarding vaccine discourse, and the dangers of overly emotional attachment to leaders. Learn strategies for cultivating critical thinking and individual autonomy in a polarized world, helping you break free from the scripts we often unthinkingly follow.

16 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 21min
How To Be More Interesting
Discover surprising techniques to be your most authentic self and naturally increase your charisma. Dive into the importance of deepening your interests while rejecting the pressure to fit in. Experience the joy of embracing your quirks, as humor can build confidence and connections. Learn how to balance self-expression with societal expectations, illustrated by a bold personal story. Finally, reflect on these insights to enhance your understanding and retention for personal growth and connection.

Nov 29, 2024 • 31min
Identity, Power & Narcissism: The Hidden Psychology of Mean Girls & Regina George
Exploring the psychology of Regina George reveals many layers beneath her villainous facade. The discussion dives into the origins of narcissism and how high school social dynamics shape our morals. We learn why some people become submissive to aggression and the fragility of power within peer relationships. Revisiting Mean Girls sheds light on relational aggression, vulnerability, and even the transformative effects of near-death experiences. Ultimately, there's much to uncover about identity and the manipulative behavior that often accompanies the quest for social dominance.

6 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 28min
The Psychology of Black Friday - Social Contagions, Deal FOMO & Retail Rage
Dive into the chaotic world of Black Friday, where marketing psychology meets primal instincts. Discover how tactics like scarcity and FOMO turn rational shoppers into overwhelmed buyers. Explore the darker, more compassionate sides of holiday spending and the emotional highs and lows tied to consumerism. Reflect on the environmental impact of our shopping habits and the contrasting call for kindness during the holidays. Listen for insights on finding calm amidst the consumer frenzy.

6 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 23min
How To Gracefully Deal With Life Problems
Explore a three-part decision framework to navigate life's challenges through a fresh lens! Understand how all problems are ultimately mental perceptions and learn to categorize them into those you can change, those to accept, and those that require creative solutions. Dive into the power of gratitude and acceptance, and the importance of self-reflection in embracing change. Uncover the keys to true happiness by prioritizing community, purpose, and self-love for a more fulfilling life!

Nov 19, 2024 • 21min
2 Lessons To Build Real Gratitude That Don't Suck [Even for Skeptics]
Forget the usual gratitude tips; this discussion dives into unconventional ways to foster real appreciation. Explore how embracing challenges can redefine your perspective on life’s obstacles. Discover the idea of polymathic curiosity as a key to raising daily gratitude. The hosts challenge the typical focus on flaws, highlighting the beauty in imperfections. Learn to see gratitude not just as a practice but as a transformative lens through which to view relationships and modern conveniences.

Nov 15, 2024 • 37min
How To Increase Your Intelligence and Become A Deep Thinker
Explore five key practices to boost mental clarity and decision-making. Learn to evade shallow thinking and understand the roots of your opinions. Discover techniques for interval training to enhance concentration and how to embrace slower, purposeful progress. Delve into mindful tech use to cultivate independent thought and avoid cognitive pitfalls, using examples from historical figures. Engage with diverse viewpoints to deepen understanding and foster intellectual curiosity— paving the way for wisdom and clarity in a fast-paced world.

Nov 12, 2024 • 31min
Intellectual Discipline: How to Train Your Mind & Let Go of Your Ego
Discover how self-deception can sabotage your growth. Explore the connection between intelligence and our tendency to lie to ourselves. Hear personal stories revealing the biggest mistakes driven by ego. Uncover warning signs that you aren't speaking the truth and learn methods to catch your own ego in action. This engaging discussion provides transformative takeaways to enhance self-awareness and improve decision-making in your life.

Nov 8, 2024 • 39min
AI & Personal Growth: How to Spark Creativity and Deeper Thought Using ChatGPT (with Tim O'Shea)
Tim O'Shea, a successful entrepreneur and AI enthusiast, shares his journey of leveraging AI for personal growth and creativity. He discusses the art of thinking deeper and faster by utilizing tools like ChatGPT. O'Shea explores how AI can help improve storytelling and uncover lost memories. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining independent thought while embracing generative AI for idea generation and problem-solving. With playful insights, he reveals how anyone can harness this technology to elevate creativity and enhance their life.

59 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 38min
34 Unconventional Life Lessons You Don't Learn In School
Explore unconventional life lessons that challenge common beliefs. Discover the importance of self-reflection to identify true passions, enjoying the journey rather than the destination. Embrace innovation by questioning societal norms and assumptions. Learn from others' mistakes and appreciate life's unpredictability. Rethink perspectives on misunderstood places like North Korea, and emphasize the power of independent thought. This discussion offers insights on emotional management, personal fulfillment, and the significance of building your own beliefs.


