Charan Ranganath, a Professor of psychology and neuroscience and author of 'Why We Remember', dives into the complexities of memory. He discusses the intriguing reasons behind what we remember and why accuracy is often elusive. Listeners will learn how mindfulness can enhance memory and how striking a balance between documenting moments and genuinely experiencing them is key. The conversation also touches on the impact of past experiences on memory distortion and the fascinating dynamics of our 'remembering self' versus our 'experiencing self.'

Fran Garrod-Cole, a sports psychology expert, shares insights on marathon preparation, emphasizing grit and resilience. Jess Howard, a graduate of Fran's program, discusses how structured goal setting transformed her running journey. Mariska Vance-B, a science journalist and run coach, explores the psychological tools that enhance endurance. They delve into the significance of community support, mental strategies, and the emotional impact of running, illustrating how the sport can build confidence and overcome mental barriers.

Dive into the intimate world of masturbation, exploring its historical journey from a taboo subject to a more accepted aspect of self-love. Discover the quirky origins of cornflakes, linked to Dr. Kellogg's beliefs about suppressing sexual urges. Learn why both humans and animals engage in this behavior and the evolutionary reasons behind it. The discussion reveals how societal stigmas have shaped personal perceptions, highlighting the importance of embracing this natural part of human sexuality.

Explore the intricate dance of human connection and division. The podcast dives into how our brains evolved to favor familiarity, impacting our trust towards others. It highlights the societal consequences of biases shaped by culture and media. The role of social media is scrutinized, revealing how it often replaces meaningful interactions. Additionally, the lasting effects of childhood bullying on social behavior are discussed, emphasizing the need for education in nurturing healthy relationships.

Discover the crucial link between sleep and mental health. Insomnia’s impact isn’t just grumpiness; it significantly raises the risk of depression. Hear personal stories from Australians battling anxiety and sleep deprivation. Learn about effective treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy versus sleeping pills. Explore the deep-rooted sleep disparities faced by marginalized communities and innovative culturally relevant solutions. This discussion sheds light on the necessity of prioritizing restorative sleep for overall well-being.

Explore the harrowing reality of stalking through the lens of the Netflix series 'Baby Reindeer'. Discover the five distinct types of stalkers, from the incompetent suitor to the predatory stalker, and what drives their behaviors. Learn about the psychological toll on victims and the complexities faced by caregivers dealing with obsessive patients. Delve into the importance of recognizing warning signs and maintaining boundaries while navigating the trauma of unwanted attention.

Dive into the fascinating world of attachment theory and discover how social media often misrepresents its principles. Explore the pivotal role of childhood bonds in shaping our emotional lives, influenced by trailblazers like John Bowlby. Understand attachment styles as a spectrum, not just rigid categories, and how many of us navigate nuanced feelings in relationships. Plus, learn how cultural pressures can distort our perceptions of love and connection, urging us to cultivate kindness and self-awareness in our interactions.

Two research psychologists join the discussion, bringing their expertise to the popular yet controversial concept of love languages. They explore the origins and evolution of these love languages, scrutinizing their academic validity. The pair critique how love languages may oversimplify complex emotional expressions. They emphasize the importance of empathy and communication over mere alignment with love languages. The conversation also amusingly touches on animal behavior, adding a unique twist to the topic of relationships.

Dr. Lindsay Gibson, a bestselling author, discusses the profound effects of growing up with emotionally immature parents. She categorizes these parents into four types, highlighting how they shape their children's emotional health well into adulthood. The conversation delves into emotional abuse, the psychology of neglect, and the complexities of setting boundaries with such parents. Lindsay emphasizes the need for healing, self-worth, and the importance of recognizing one's own childhood experiences to foster emotional safety.

Explore the soothing power of the night sky and its link to mental well-being. Discover how stargazing can rejuvenate the soul, with personal tales of renewal under the Northern Lights in Iceland. Learn about the Night Sky Connectedness Index, measuring emotional health tied to celestial experiences. Delight in guided night walks that heighten senses and foster tranquility. Plus, confront the issue of light pollution and its impact on our connection to the universe. Uncover the secrets of the cosmos for a happier, healthier life.