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
9 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 15min
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 • 32min
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 • 32min
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 • 30min
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 • 19min
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 • 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!
