
Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement
There are a lot of opinions on how to master your mind, but then there’s PSYCHOLOGY.We’re all stuck with the brain we’re born with, but we aren’t stuck with how we use it.Learn science-backed answers to make the most of your mind and your life.CURIOUS?Growth Mindset Psychology is the "self-help sceptic" podcast for the curious.Whether you want to improve performance, navigate setbacks, or know who you are.We find answers to the true science of self-improvement.So put down the astrology chart and start working with your mind, instead of against it.With over 8 million downloads and 60,000 monthly listeners, you’re invited to join.PROCESSInstead of telling you what to think, we discuss how thinking works.Armed with a stack of science journals, textbooks and a boatload of curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of the mind.Why? >>> Success is personal!You might want to make the most of your neurodiverse strengths, start a business, or simply find more reasons to smile.Hone your ability for independent thinking and growth with mental models to pursue your definition of success.HOSTI’m Sam Webster Harris, a lifelong learner with ADHD, a raging curiosity, and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions.After launching several businesses, travelling the world and nearly dying a few times I concluded that science and Psychology are where it’s at.What actually makes people happy? What’s the best way to treat a brain? How can I get more done?Studying the answers we find that changing behaviours requires building mindsets, mental models, and a healthy relationship with failure.I run the show to help listeners enjoy nutritious content that feeds their minds (and I needed a legitimate excuse to cover for my reading addiction).PREMIUMGo Ad-Free and listen to exclusive content.Support the show and access the AMA features and community Discord.Growth Mindset PremiumARCHIVEPrevious 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— Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets
Latest episodes

Jan 3, 2025 • 22min
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 • 26min
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.

8 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 16min
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 • 34min
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 • 33min
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 • 32min
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 • 20min
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!

Dec 6, 2024 • 46min
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.

15 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 22min
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 • 33min
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.