Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Super Communicators, dives into the art of effective communication. He shares insights on becoming a 'super communicator' through active listening and emotional awareness. Duhigg illustrates how asking deep questions can foster genuine connections. He recounts experiences from a former CIA agent, emphasizing authenticity in challenging conversations. The discussion also highlights techniques to bridge divides and create meaningful dialogues, showing that anyone can master these skills.

Chris Bauman, Professor of branding at Macquarie University and co-author of 'The Psychology Behind Design', dives into the fascinating ways design influences our shopping habits. He unpacks concepts like nudge theory and the mere exposure effect, demonstrating how familiar aesthetics compete with modern innovation in products. The discussion includes emotional connections brands create, the role of AI in design, and how strategic choices can subtly guide consumer behavior, all through engaging examples like the Michelin Man and Yamaha's electric violin.

In this discussion, audio engineer Amelia Geis, who lives with sound sensitivities, shares personal experiences and insights on navigating noisy public spaces. Joined by Philippa James, an audiologist specializing in autism, they explore how auditory sensitivities affect individuals differently. They highlight effective strategies for managing sensory overload, such as noise-canceling tools and emotional regulation techniques. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of designing public spaces for sensory inclusivity, benefiting everyone in the community.

In this engaging discussion, guest Anastasia Hironis, a clinical psychologist and author of 'The Dopamine Brain,' unpacks the complex role of dopamine in our lives. She explores how modern tech and social media can lead to emotional 'hangovers' from overstimulation. The conversation tackles the controversy surrounding dopamine detoxes, emphasizing the need for long-term change over quick fixes. Hironis also highlights the importance of aligning personal values with healthy habits, providing insights on finding balance in a pleasure-driven world.

In this engaging discussion, Nick Haslam, a renowned psychology professor at the University of Melbourne, explores the evolving language of mental health. He delves into 'concept creep,' revealing how terms like 'depression' and 'trauma' have broadened, sparking both greater awareness and potential trivialization. Haslam examines the societal impacts of labeling everyday experiences as trauma and contrasts 'big T trauma' with 'small t trauma.' This nuanced conversation invites listeners to reflect on the balance between empowerment and the risks of oversimplifying mental health.

Claire Concannon, a science reporter and host of Our Changing World on Radio New Zealand, dives into the intriguing phenomenon of anauralia, where individuals lack an inner voice. The conversation explores how this condition impacts daily life, memory strategies, and communication. Claire shares insights on cognitive diversity alongside aphantasia, while highlighting innovative research methods like pupillometry. The episode also touches on the unique challenges musicians face without an instinctive auditory reaction, emphasizing the importance of recognizing neurodiversity in educational settings.

Claire Concannon, a science reporter and host from Radio New Zealand, joins psychologists Sam Murr and Marty Snarkis to explore the universal language of music. They discuss how emotional connections in songs, like lullabies and love songs, transcend cultures. Sam shares insights from the Natural History of Song project, showcasing how different cultures respond similarly to music. Meanwhile, they uncover how parental singing positively influences infants, enhancing bonding and early auditory perception, highlighting music's deep psychological significance.

Laura Murphy, Director of Education and Awareness at the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders, and Rosie Worsley, Melbourne-based endocrinologist, delve into the complexities of PMDD. Laura shares her personal battles with the disorder, revealing how PMS can morph into debilitating depression. They discuss the misdiagnosis of PMDD, the hormonal influences on emotions, and the urgent need for better awareness. Clinical trials for treatments are also highlighted, as well as the challenges women face in navigating treatment options.

Join Chris French, an expert in anomalistic psychology and the author of The Science of Weird Shit, alongside Ashley Jane, a friend of paranormal investigators. They dive into the psychology behind ghost sightings and why some of us believe. Discover the influence of personal beliefs on paranormal encounters, and hear humorous tales from a haunted drama school. Explore how our minds interpret eerie events and the balance between skepticism and belief, shedding light on why some find comfort in the supernatural.

Charlie Rewilding, a UK-based writer and artist, shares her journey towards digital minimalism which has transformed her mental health. Lisa Elliott, a research administrator, delves into the impact of social media on our lives and its addictive nature. Meanwhile, Sumudu Malawarachi highlights the persuasive design of apps that keep us hooked. Together, they discuss the liberating experience of unplugging, exploring alternative hobbies, and encouraging a mindful relationship with technology in a world overwhelmed by screens.