

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

Jan 12, 2024 • 31min
Engineer Unstoppable Motivation and Resilience
Learn how to build unstoppable motivation and resilience with scientifically proven tactics. Discover different types of motivation and how to tap into them. Avoid burnout and foster a sense of purpose by aligning actions with personal values.

Jan 9, 2024 • 30min
7 Habits of Highly Miserable People
Learn about the habits that bring unhappiness and how to create happiness. Explore Mott and Bailey argument styles, lying to ourselves, and the habit of procrastination. Discover the negative impact of social isolation and the importance of meaningful relationships. Understand the negative impact of social media on people's lives.

Jan 5, 2024 • 21min
Be More Yourself in 2024
Explore how your physical environment impacts mindset, creativity, and success. Surround yourself with positive and motivated individuals. Be aware of toxic traits and surround yourself with inspiring and challenging individuals. Embrace unconventional perspectives for personal growth. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to be true to yourself.

Jan 2, 2024 • 27min
Meditations of Marcus Aurelius: Timeless Wisdom for Better Days
Explore powerful ancient wisdom from Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' for self-improvement. Learn about anger management, controlling your mind, embracing failure, changing opinions, and taking action to improve your life. Discover stoic techniques and practical lessons from one of history's greatest philosophers.

5 snips
Dec 29, 2023 • 57min
10 Golden Rules for Habit Formation
Discover the science-backed secrets to forming habits that stick. Learn the importance of aligning expectations with desires for successful habit execution. Explore the first two rules for habit formation: starting with why and making the habit obvious. Prioritize consistency over intensity for effective habit formation. Emphasize self-compassion and mindfulness in habit formation, avoiding overwhelm. Reflect on personal growth in relationships and finances through thoughtful choices.

Dec 22, 2023 • 38min
Walls of Perception: See Reality Hidden Behind Ego Blind Spots, Innate Biases & Terrible Logic
Explore the psychology behind ego blind spots, biases, and terrible logic in perceiving reality. Learn how emphasizing similarities over differences can build bridges and lead with love. Discover the harmful effects of overlooking similarities and the power of empathy. Dive into topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, challenging assumptions, and seeking positive reviews. Open your mind and heart to unite in our basic desires and capabilities.

Dec 20, 2023 • 23min
Open Minded Testing of Principles to Live By
St Augustine walked a long and winding road from violence and gratification to virtue and veneration. He wrote one of the first surviving autobiographies that also recorded his scientific approach to understanding religion and humanity with our flaws whilst exploring the philosophy of fulfilment.Journey inside the mind of one of history’s most influential thinkers. In this psychology and self-improvement-focused episode, we’re unpacking the first autobiography ever written – the Confessions of St. Augustine.In this episode we explore the landmark autobiography “Confessions” by St. Augustine, braiding philosophical insights across a dramatic life story arc. Journey through profound realizations about memory, learning, time, astrology, friendship formed through shared misdeeds, and the innate darkness within humanity. See how misguided faith gave way to an abiding wisdom we still reference today.”- - -On the growth mindset podcast with Sam Webster Harris, we explore the psychology of happiness, satisfaction, purpose, and growth through the lens of self-improvement. Success and happiness is a state of mind unique to ourselves and is our responsibility to create.Through a process of honest self-reflection of what is holding us back and what is driving us forward, we can lose the ego and build awareness of how to be the best we can be.- - -Connect with Sam:Sam's newsletter on creativity - Explosive ThinkingWatch the pod - YouTube (Growth Mindset)Twitter - @samjamharrisInstagram - @SamJam.zenYoutube - @Samjam- - -Show: Growth Mindset, psychology of self-improvementEpisode: Open Minded Testing of Principles to Live ByChapters:0:00 Curiosity Fuels the Quest for Truth02:27 Overview on the Confessions of Saint Augustine05:22 Ancient philosophies answering basic questions06:27 St. Augustine's early childhood10:34 Astrology's limit12:09 Augustine's teenage years14:22 Nature vs. Nurture17:53 Ancient Understanding on Memory19:34 Send offTopicsSt. AugustineThe ConfessionsStoicismSelf improvementHumans Natural FlawOvercoming SinfulnessLiving in the PresentShort-term GratificationMemoryAstrologyCuriosityAttraction of Faith an HappinessSpirituality Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

6 snips
Dec 16, 2023 • 30min
Ego is the Enemy
This thought-provoking podcast explores the profound influence of ego on personal and professional growth. It delves into the dangers of ego in early stages, how it can cast a shadow over achievements, and serve as an anchor in the face of failure. Embracing humility and lifelong learning are key to overcoming ego and cultivating a growth mindset.

Dec 12, 2023 • 19min
Decoding Epicurus' Happiness Hacks
Explore the teachings of ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus and his principles of happiness. Challenge common misconceptions and discover the similarities between Epicurean thinking and Stoicism. Delve into the importance of simplicity, true happiness, and the impact of material possessions on our well-being. Reflect on life's challenges and find gratitude in the present moment.

Dec 8, 2023 • 26min
Live Before You Die
In this podcast, they explore Seneca's wisdom on overcoming fear, using time wisely, and truly living. They discuss the impact of fear and desire on personal growth, the value of time, the changing definition of time-wasting, the importance of wisdom and experiences, and living a meaningful life. They also reflect on philosophy and immediate living.


