
Changing Minds with Owen Fitzpatrick
Changing Minds Podcast is a podcast about thinking for a change. Each week, Psychologist Owen Fitzpatrick will be exploring how you can use behavioral science to learn how to run your brain better, influence others better, and believe better.
Latest episodes

Mar 31, 2025 • 25min
THE SCIENCE OF PERSUASION - HOW TO WIN HEARTS AND MINDS
In this episode of Changing Minds, I explore one of my favorite topics: persuasion—how to ethically and effectively influence others. I break down the difference between persuasion and manipulation, examine psychological roadblocks like confirmation bias and reactance, and unpack Aristotle’s classic ethos, logos, and pathos with a modern addition: demos—the audience. Whether you're leading a team, selling an idea, or having a meaningful conversation, persuasion is your superpower. I’ll share frameworks, insights, and strategies to help you win hearts and minds while staying grounded in integrity and empathy. Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Mar 24, 2025 • 50min
10 MUST-READ BOOKS ON INFLUENCE
In this episode of the Changing Minds Podcast, I dive into 10 of the most powerful books on influence and persuasion that have transformed the way I think about helping others change their minds. From Robert Cialdini’s classic principles to Jonah Berger’s insights on contagious ideas, I break down the key lessons, strategies, and how you can apply them ethically in your personal and professional life. Whether you’re a leader, marketer, parent, or coach, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to enhance your influence. Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/ Number 1: Seven Principles of Influence by Cialdini Number 2: The Power of Persuasion by Cialdini Number 3: Rhetoric by Aristotle Number 4: Nudge by Richard Taylor and Cass Sunstein Number 5: Drive by Daniel Pink Number 6: How Minds Change by Dave McRaney Number 7: Persuasion Engineering by Richard Bandler and John LaValle Number 8: The Catalyst by Jonah Berger Number 9: Words That Work by Frank Luntz 42:57 Number 10: Contagious by Jonah Berger

Mar 17, 2025 • 24min
HOW ARISTOTLE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
What if the wisdom of a philosopher from over 2,000 years ago could change your life today? In this episode of Changing Minds, I explore how Aristotle's revolutionary ideas on persuasion, storytelling, and personal growth still hold the key to living a fulfilling life. From Nicomachean Ethics to Rhetoric and Poetics, we dive into his insights on influence, leadership, and finding purpose. I’ll uncover the timeless lessons that can transform the way you think, act, and communicate. Subscribe for more psychology, persuasion, and philosophy insights! Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Mar 10, 2025 • 24min
HOW PLATO CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
What if the way you see reality isn’t real at all? In this episode of Changing Minds, I explore the profound wisdom of Plato—one of history’s greatest philosophers. We’ll dive into his Allegory of the Cave, the Theory of Forms, and his vision of Philosopher Kings to uncover how his ideas still shape our thinking today. Whether you're looking to improve your leadership, deepen your understanding of truth, or escape the illusions of modern society, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss! Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Mar 3, 2025 • 31min
HOW SOCRATES CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
In this episode of Changing Minds, I go into how Socrates changed the world—not by writing books but by asking better questions. His Socratic questioning has influenced philosophy, psychology, and even modern-day leadership. But how can his insights help you live a more meaningful, intelligent life today? In this episode, I explore: - Socrates’ life and his lasting influence on philosophy. - The Socratic questioning approach—how deep questions can reshape your thinking. - Why he chose death over abandoning his principles. - How his ideas apply to critical thinking, leadership, and decision-making today. By the end, you'll see why Socrates’ approach to questioning can help you challenge assumptions, improve your thinking, and make better decisions. Hit play, and let’s journey into the world of Socrates! 🎧✨ 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more psychology, philosophy, and personal growth insights. Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Feb 24, 2025 • 25min
How Stoicism Can Change Your Life
In this episode of Changing Minds, I explore the transformative power of Stoicism, a 2,000-year-old philosophy that remains as relevant today as ever. From its historical roots with Zeno of Citium to modern interpretations by Ryan Holiday, Stoicism offers timeless wisdom to handle challenges, improve resilience, and cultivate inner peace. Discover how you can apply its practical tools—like focusing on what you can control and embracing adversity—to lead a more virtuous and fulfilling life. Tune in and let Stoicism inspire positive change! Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 1min
Why We All Feel Lost (And How to Fix It)
In this episode of Changing Minds, I sit down with my longtime friend Kev Fitzsimons, a digital marketing expert and musician, to challenge the "always be optimizing" mindset. We talk about: - The illusion of control & why trying too hard makes life harder. - The toxic positivity trap & why it's okay to feel bad sometimes. - The problem with social media & the age of outrage. - Are we really that special? (Spoiler: Probably not.) - How acceptance & perspective can lead to a more fulfilling life. This is a refreshing take on letting go of the pressure to be exceptional and embracing a realistic, freeing outlook on life. Tune in, and let’s rethink what truly matters. Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Feb 3, 2025 • 55min
The Most Powerful Sentence of All Time
Neil Gordon, a master of persuasion and creator of the "Silver Bullet Method," discusses the nuances of effective communication. He reveals how the art of surprise and storytelling can elevate your messages and shares insights on crafting compelling TED Talks. Neil emphasizes the importance of understanding others' challenges and leveraging emotional engagement. Additionally, he teases his upcoming book, which delves into these powerful concepts through an engaging fable. Get ready to transform your persuasion skills!

Jan 27, 2025 • 48min
We Need to Talk: How to Have Difficult Conversations
In this episode of Changing Minds, I dive into one of the most vital skills you can ever develop: handling difficult conversations. Whether you're sharing bad news, giving feedback, or discussing sensitive topics, these moments shape relationships and outcomes. Drawing insights from three transformative books—Nonviolent Communication, Crucial Conversations, and Difficult Conversations—I’ll share actionable strategies to navigate these interactions with empathy and effectiveness. Join me as we explore the neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and tools to turn challenging talks into meaningful connections. Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/

Jan 20, 2025 • 32min
13 Ways to Overcome Sabotage
In this episode of Changing Minds, I dive deep into self-sabotage—why we get in our own way and how to stop. From fears of failure and success to procrastination and perfectionism, I break down the psychology and neuroscience behind self-sabotage. More importantly, I share 13 practical techniques to overcome it, including improving self-talk, embracing imperfection, and expanding your comfort zone. Whether you’re struggling with procrastination or seeking to break free from self-limiting beliefs, this episode will help you pave the way to success. Tune in and let’s change your mind about self-sabotage! Visit my website: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/ Join my Newsletter: https://owenfitzpatrick.com/newsletter/