

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

Aug 6, 2024 • 54min
How to Build Free Will & Self-Control [Psychology of Default Behaviours]
Explore the fascinating interplay between free will and consciousness. Discover how fixed and growth mindsets impact your choices, and learn to master your emotional responses. Delve into the psychology behind revenge and how triggers can shape our reactions. The discussion highlights the importance of self-reflection and transformation in the face of setbacks. By understanding unconscious thought processes, you can enhance self-control and embrace a journey of continuous self-improvement. Dive into these powerful concepts that shape your responses to life!

4 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 20min
3 Tactics to Leave Your Comfort Zone and Overcome Fear of Failure
Discover the power of embracing failure as a catalyst for growth. Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to new skills and opportunities. Delve into the significance of deliberate practice as a tool for improvement. Enjoy humorous anecdotes that highlight life's unpredictable nature and the lessons hidden within chaos. Celebrate your missteps and transform your perspective on challenges, allowing fear to become a stepping stone for success.

32 snips
Jul 30, 2024 • 36min
The Neuroscience of Growth Mindset, Learning and Behaviour Change
Dive into the fascinating world of neuroplasticity and how it shapes our beliefs and behaviors. Discover the difference between growth and fixed mindsets, and how they influence learning and brain development. Embrace failure as a necessary step for personal growth, focusing on the value of mistakes in skill acquisition. Learn how adopting a growth mindset allows for continual adaptation and improvement, essential for achieving personal goals. Gain insights into how our environment and experiences affect our mental architecture.

Jul 26, 2024 • 52min
Eternal Laws of Human Nature: Timeless Investing Principles from “Same As Ever" - Morgan Housel
In this insightful discussion, finance expert Morgan Housel and economics enthusiast Nicolas Vereecke explore the timeless lessons from Housel's 'Same As Ever'. They delve into how unseen risks can impact financial decisions and the necessity of balancing ambition with contentment. The impact of social circles on success is highlighted, alongside the distinction between permanent and transient information. Listeners will walk away with strategies for wiser investing and a deeper understanding of human behavior in economics.

Jul 23, 2024 • 23min
Navigating the River of Time - How to decide what matters
Explore the meaning of actions and legacy, embrace the present over legacy, delve into philosophical questions about life's purpose, and contemplate the effects of time on our lives. From historical grooming habits to the coolest saying ever, this episode is filled with thought-provoking discussions and unique perspectives.

Jul 19, 2024 • 60min
7 Weird Life-Changing Skills That Will Make You Happier [+How to build them]
Explore the significance of unique life skills for happiness and success. Embrace curiosity, humor, and enthusiasm to stand out. Challenge societal norms and build skills that make you memorable and happy. Enhance communication through body language and egoless interactions.

Jul 16, 2024 • 27min
Ditch Perfect: A Guide to Embracing Wins and Boosting Your Happiness[Repeat]
In this podcast, they discuss the dangers of perfectionism and the importance of embracing imperfections. They highlight the concept of hedonic adaptation and the pursuit of sustainable happiness. The episode delves into celebrating achievements and recognizing the value of self-appreciation. Additionally, they explore the significance of balancing perfection with good enough and overcoming the habit of constantly seeking more without experiencing joy.

Jul 12, 2024 • 49min
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 • 22min
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 • 20min
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.


