

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

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.

Jul 2, 2024 • 51min
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 • 45min
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 • 23min
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 • 26min
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 • 32min
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.


