Growth Minds with Sean Kim

Mark Manson is a bestselling author, blogger, and cultural commentator known for his honest, no-nonsense take on personal growth. He first gained global recognition with Models, a practical guide to dating and authenticity, followed by the international bestseller The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. His work challenges traditional self-help by emphasizing values, responsibility, and psychological realism. Mark also hosts the podcast SOLVED, where he explores life’s hardest questions through science, philosophy, and candid conversation.In our conversation we discuss:(0:34) – Reinventing identity across career stages(4:31) – Advice for releasing outdated identities(8:29) – Letting go of former selves(10:55) – Effects of quitting alcohol(16:59) – Handling social stigma when not drinking(19:08) – Developing a healthy relationship with boredom(25:59) – Subtraction versus addition in personal growth(28:33) – Balancing self-acceptance and self-improvement(30:55) – Motivation without tying worth to success(33:44) – What deserves a scarcity mindset(36:49) – When suffering gives life meaning(41:40) – Finding a meaningful purpose to pursue(44:24) – Values grounded in personal control(47:13) – Identity tied to work in future societies(52:02) – How status changes when wealth declines(53:48) – Self-help as modern secular religion(59:32) – Will religion make a comeback(1:02:05) – Law of “fuck yes or no” explained(1:04:04) – Key questions to evaluate relationships(1:06:08) – Identifying non-negotiables in partners(1:09:16) – Why attraction feels uncontrollable(1:16:23) – Ending friendships that no longer serve(1:21:00) – Personal growth focus right nowWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Roger Seheult is a physician specializing in pulmonary and critical care medicine and is widely recognized for his expertise on vitamin D and sunlight’s role in human health. He is the co-founder of MedCram, where he explains the science behind vitamin D, immune function, sleep, and metabolic health in a clear, evidence-based way. Dr. Seheult is known for translating complex medical research into practical guidance that helps people optimize health and resilience.In our conversation we discuss:(0:00) – Sunlight benefits beyond vitamin D(3:39) – Can sunlight increase lifespan(6:36) – Sunlight versus outdoor activity benefits(13:20) – Best time of day for sunlight(19:52) – Morning cortisol: wake time versus sun timing(21:01) – Is sunlight best cortisol trigger(22:56) – Front-loading cortisol and workout timing(27:26) – Blue light effects on circadian rhythm(33:36) – Why earlier sleep improves energy(39:12) – Can late sleepers fully adapt(40:26) – Ideal sleep and wake schedule(44:01) – Can weekend sleep make up deficits(45:39) – Daily melatonin use safety(51:04) – Recommended sleep supplements(1:00:30) – Are chronotypes fixed or flexible(1:00:53) – Sunscreen risks and benefits(1:05:39) – Face sunscreen with body sun exposure(1:08:38) – Sun exposure needed for vitamin D(1:11:44) – Optimal vitamin D dosage and toxicity(1:14:05) – Other key immune system boosters(1:19:47) – Hot and cold therapy for immunity(1:25:52) – Sauna and cold exposure guidelinesWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is a scientist and associate professor at the University of South Florida, internationally known for his research on ketosis, metabolic health, and human performance. His work explores the therapeutic and performance benefits of ketogenic diets, fasting, and metabolic therapies, including applications in cancer, neurological disorders, and extreme environments. Dr. D’Agostino has advised elite military units, NASA-affiliated research programs, and professional athletes. He is widely respected for translating cutting-edge metabolic science into practical strategies for health and resilience.In our conversation we discuss:(0:00) What is the ketogenic diet overview(2:52) How carbs versus keto affect the body(5:44) Why should someone try keto(9:45) Mental focus benefits of ketosis(14:48) Cyclical versus continuous ketogenic dieting(22:56) Keto fat intake and cardiovascular risk(32:40) Low-carb versus strict keto risks(37:35) Carnivore diet versus ketogenic diet(43:22) Ancestral eating and adding berries(48:11) Best timing for carbs on keto(52:35) How beginners should start keto(57:12) Managing keto flu and side effects(1:01:10) Ketosis effects on sleep quality(1:07:48) Melatonin use and long-term safety(1:13:02) Quality of life versus strict dieting(1:19:14) Where to learn more about keto researchWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Neal Barnard is a physician, clinical researcher, and founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). He is a leading advocate for plant-based nutrition and has conducted groundbreaking studies on how diet affects diabetes, heart disease, and brain health. Dr. Barnard is the author of numerous bestselling books, including The Power Foods for the Brain and Your Body in Balance. Through his research and public education efforts, he has become one of the most influential voices in promoting evidence-based, compassionate nutrition.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) – Misconceptions and origins of the plant-based diet(02:24) – Early exposure to heart disease and meat connection(05:11) – Discovery that plant-based diets reverse diabetes(06:07) – Portion control vs. natural body regulation(07:38) – Humans as plant-eaters, not natural carnivores(08:53) – Stone Age tools enabled unnatural meat consumption(10:22) – Returning to plant-based diets improves health(14:10) – Reversing diseases through diet changes and research(16:03) – What “plant-based” truly means and typical meals(17:33) – How fat buildup causes insulin resistance(18:53) – Three-week vegan diet and diabetes improvement(20:47) – Why omnivorous diets fail long-term(21:59) – Clarifying vegan vs. plant-based terminology(22:31) – Comparing keto and plant-based diet results(25:12) – Health risks and misconceptions of ketogenic diets(27:36) – The four pillars of a healthy diet(29:37) – Environmental and ethical impact of meat consumption(33:14) – Getting sufficient protein from plants(35:22) – Shrimp farming ethics and environmental damage(39:26) – Food production methods vs. health outcomes(41:31) – Protein intake debates and sarcopenia(45:03) – Plant protein sources and practical meal ideas(47:02) – Dining out and global vegan meal options(49:44) – Supplements: B12, D, iodine, omega-3s(54:06) – Iron sources and risks of excess iron(59:33) – Dairy, hormones, and links to cancer(1:07:06) – Compassion, evolution, and human indifference to animals(1:13:20) – Cultural and economic factors in diet choices(1:20:11) – Ethical debates about plants, pain, and life(1:23:22) – Dr. Barnard’s books and closing reflectionsWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Richard Shotton is a behavioral science expert, author, and consultant specializing in applying psychological research to marketing and consumer behavior. He is best known for his bestselling books "The Choice Factory" and "The Illusion of Choice", which reveal how insights from behavioral science can influence decision-making and brand success. With over two decades of experience in advertising, Shotton works with leading companies to apply evidence-based strategies that drive real-world results. He is also a sought-after speaker, known for making behavioral science practical, engaging, and actionable.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) – Who benefits from this conversation and book overview(00:44) – Behavioral science applied to business and marketing(01:28) – Psychology principles also shaping personal brands(02:45) – Focus vs variety: the goal dilution effect(03:52) – Study showing multiple benefits reduce credibility(05:27) – Why people trust specialists over generalists(07:06) – Restaurant and brand examples proving focus wins(07:54) – Five Guys story: simplicity and specialization(09:46) – How focus improves both product and perception(10:39) – Exceptions like Amazon and Google’s success(12:14) – Why AI brands should emphasize specialization(17:13) – Applying focus and credibility to personal branding(18:55) – The Pratfall Effect: admitting flaws builds trust(21:30) – Using weaknesses to strengthen authenticity(24:11) – Price perception: high cost implies high quality(26:22) – Smart ways to admit flaws and gain believability(27:27) – Case studies: Avis, Buckley’s, and embracing flaws(31:07) – Kraft’s hidden reformulation and expectation bias(35:31) – Eco-friendly bias and performance expectations(38:40) – The Zeigarnik Effect: memory from incomplete tasks(43:26) – KFC secrecy and Coca-Cola mystery as engagement tools(45:28) – Illusion of effort: visible work increases perceived value(49:20) – Transparency in design: Dyson, kitchens, and websites(54:27) – Behavioral biases as flexible tools for persuasion(57:01) – Testing ideas ethically through observation(1:02:43) – Liquid Death and breaking conventions to stand out(1:07:04) – Repetition and the mere exposure effect(1:10:40) – False consensus: marketers aren’t their audience(1:12:18) – Main takeaway: remove barriers, make it easyLearn more about RichardAstroten - Richard's CompanyAmazon Book Link - Hacking the Human MindChoice FactoryWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard's 'mother of mindfulness,' dives into how our mindset significantly influences our health and aging. She challenges the concept of mindlessness and illustrates how simply noticing changes can enhance mindfulness. Langer discusses the surprising benefits of viewing work as exercise and how perceived time can affect healing. She emphasizes the unity of mind and body and presents fascinating studies, including one where older participants acting younger reversed aging markers. A thought-provoking conversation that reshapes our understanding of well-being!

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex cosmic concepts accessible to the public. He serves as the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Through his books, television appearances, and the podcast StarTalk, Dr. Tyson inspires curiosity about the universe and promotes scientific literacy worldwide. His engaging storytelling and wit have made him one of the most recognizable voices in modern science.In our conversation we discuss:(01:08) Mysteries that keep Neil deGrasse Tyson up at night(03:47) How scientists learn to ask the right questions(07:14) Philosophy’s role and value in modern science(10:43) Why philosophers stopped influencing physical sciences(12:54) Misinterpretations of Neil’s comments on philosophy(17:03) Becoming famous and public accountability(21:07) How scientists stay connected and exchange ideas(24:51) Choosing between teaching, science, and public outreach(28:14) Current research interests and unsolved astrophysics questions(30:43) Impact of private space travel on science(35:16) Relationship between science, politics, and the military(36:30) Why Elon Musk won’t reach Mars first(37:49) Future of space tourism and affordability(41:00) Expanding human presence across the solar system(47:35) Genetic engineering, ethics, and human evolution(49:27) Global cooperation and genetic regulation challenges(52:29) Human–AI integration and Neuralink skepticism(55:01) Future of robots and human labor(58:07) Early AI history and the Turing test(1:02:21) Skills young people need in the AI era(1:04:09) Teaching curiosity and lifelong learning(1:07:04) How Neil developed communication and teaching skills(1:09:37) Creating meaning and purpose in life(1:11:01) How Neil wants to be remembered(1:12:53) StarTalk, books, and inspiring public curiosityLearn more about Dr. Neil:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_deGrasse_TysonWatch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankimConnect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris is a neuroscientist and professor of neurology and psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, where he leads the Psychedelics Division. He is internationally recognized for pioneering research on psychedelics, brain function, and mental health. His studies have revealed how substances like psilocybin and LSD can “reset” brain networks and offer therapeutic potential for conditions such as depression and anxiety. Dr. Carhart-Harris is a leading voice in the renaissance of psychedelic science, making groundbreaking neuroscience accessible to both scientific and public audiences.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) Misunderstandings people have about psychedelics(02:27) Differentiating psychedelics from drugs like ketamine, MDMA(08:39) Why people group all drugs together(14:57) History of ancestral use of psychedelics(21:46) Visions or insights during dark retreat(23:17) Biohacks for psychedelic experiences without compounds(29:10) Natural vs synthetic psychedelics and effects(32:28) Albert Hoffman’s discovery of LSD(37:45) Findings from legal LSD human studies(45:55) Comparing SSRIs and psychedelics for depression(46:27) Clarification on psilocybin as treatment(48:49) Qualitative vs quantitative measures in trials(51:34) No difference between SSRIs and psychedelics?(54:21) Hesitations about psychedelics despite effectiveness(54:56) Why clinicians hesitate to provide both options(58:04) Downsides of SSRIs versus psychedelics(1:03:46) Dependency risk of SSRIs vs psychedelics(1:07:49) Personality traits suited for SSRIs vs psychedelics(1:12:54) Microdosing versus single high psychedelic doses(1:14:48) Placebo or real effects of microdosing(1:18:57) Brian Johnson’s blueprint and psychedelics(1:20:32) Psychedelics and potential longevity benefits(1:26:01) Key takeaway and misconception to forget(1:29:04) Where to follow for book updatesLearn more about Dr. Robin:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Carhart-Harrishttps://profiles.ucsf.edu/robin.carhart-harris@CarhartharrislabWatch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankimConnect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Roman Yampolskiy is a computer scientist, AI researcher, and professor at the University of Louisville, where he directs the Cyber Security Lab. He is widely recognized for his work on artificial intelligence safety, security, and the study of superintelligent systems. Dr. Yampolskiy has authored numerous books and publications, including Artificial Superintelligence: A Futuristic Approach, exploring the risks and safeguards needed as AI capabilities advance. His research and commentary have made him a leading voice in the global conversation on the future of AI and humanity.In our conversation we discuss:(00:01) Background and path into AI safety(02:27) Early AI state and containment techniques(03:43) When did AI’s Pandora’s box open(04:38) How close is AGI and definition(07:20) Why AGI definition keeps moving goalposts(09:25) ASI vs AGI: future five–ten years(11:12) Measuring ASI: tests and quantification methods(12:03) Existential threats and broad AI risks(17:35) Transhumanism: human-AI merging and coexistence(18:35) Chances and timeline for peaceful coexistence(21:16) Layers of risk beyond human extinction(23:55) Can humans retain meaning post-AGI era(27:41) Jobs AI likely cannot or won’t replace(29:42) Skills humans are losing to AI reliance(31:00) Cultivating critical thinking amid AI influence(33:34) Can nations or corporations meaningfully slow AI(37:29) Decentralized development: open-source control feasibility(40:46) Any current models with real safety measures?(41:12) Has meaning of life changed with AI?(42:36) Thoughts on simulation hypothesis and implications(43:58) If AI found simulation: modify or escape?(44:54) Key takeaway for public about AI safety(45:26) Is this your core mission in AI safety(46:14) Where to follow and learn more about youLearn more about Dr. RomanWebsite: https://www.romanyampolskiy.com/⁠⁠Socials: @RomanYampolskiy⁠⁠Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Emily Balcetis is a social psychologist and associate professor at New York University whose research explores perception, motivation, and decision-making. She is the author of Clearer, Closer, Better: How Successful People See the World, where she reveals how visual strategies can shape goal achievement and behavior. Dr. Balcetis’s work has been featured in major outlets like The New York Times, Forbes, and Harvard Business Review, and she is a sought-after speaker known for translating cutting-edge psychology into practical tools for success.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) — Importance of state of mind when setting goals(01:09) — Defining a new goal for oneself(02:23) — Trap of setting overly ambitious goals(05:31) — Finding the right balance in goal difficulty(05:31) — Weight loss as an example of balance in goals(07:57) — Role of willpower and caring in success(08:44) — Maintaining excitement for big goals with realistic timelines(12:22) — Motivated brain versus unmotivated brain(14:30) — Hill-climbing study and motivation through choice(20:15) — Applying motivational frameworks beyond health and performance(22:46) — Whether setting fewer goals is beneficial(26:38) — Research on the sweet spot for number of goals(31:37) — Testing personal limits for productivity and stress(36:34) — Relationship between beliefs and reality(41:51) — Eye-tracking studies in jury decisions and cybersecurity(47:25) — Common cognitive biases and ways to mitigate them(52:49) — Midpoint slump in motivation(58:09) — Dunning–Kruger effect and origins of overconfidence(60:24) — Role of self-compassion in motivationLearn more about Dr. EmilyWikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emily_BalcetisWatch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim