Former conspiracy theorist and social psychologist share insights on the psychology behind conspiracy beliefs, difficulties in changing minds, and strategies to help loved ones. Personal experiences of strained relationships, motivations for belief, and tips for supporting those entrenched in conspiracy theories are discussed.

Journalist Elfy Scott discusses her mother's schizophrenia, highlighting stigma and challenges. She delves into the silence and societal impacts, challenges in mental health care, dispelling myths, and factors enabling thriving with schizophrenia. The talk explores genetic and trauma influences on schizophrenia within families.

Cognitive Neuroscientist Joel Pearson discusses the psychological impact of AI, exploring deep fakes, memory processing, and human relationships. The podcast delves into the uncertainty of an AI-dominated future and the need to prepare for its consequences.

Journalist Susannah Breslin shares her experience of being a human lab rat for 30 years, reflecting on how it warped her life. The podcast delves into the impact of surveillance on identity and behavior, navigating personal challenges post-study, and exploring the influence of data collection and social media on individual narratives and self-perception.

Matt, an expert in social norms, discusses the chaos that ensues when norms suddenly change, using Sweden's switch from left to right side driving in 1967 as an example. The podcast explores cognitive simulations in social behavior, the impact of cultural tightness vs. looseness on norms, and the evolution of social norms online.

Delve into the concept of animal consciousness, from fish learning without most of their brain to African grey parrots displaying impressive problem-solving skills. Explore historical perspectives on animal consciousness and ethical considerations in causing pain to animals. Intriguing examples include planarium worms retaining memories after regrowing their heads and the debate on cockroach consciousness.

Exploring the psychological allure of cults, coercive control tactics, and challenges faced by former members. Delving into similarities between cults and domestic abuse, and the need for legal interventions. Highlighting challenges of leaving religious cults and reintegration into society. Unpacking the recovery journey post-cult experience and debunking myths about cult recruitment. Addressing generational abuse complexities and counseling individuals from cults.

Exploring the origins of our inner voice and its impact on our thoughts and actions. Discussing the benefits of negative emotions and techniques for managing inner chatter. Exploring how cultural values influence our inner dialogue and reflecting on the historical significance of the inner voice.

Exploring the concept of manifesting desires, the podcast reveals the drawbacks of manifestation techniques like vision boards and mantras. It delves into the pitfalls of excessive positive thinking, offering a grounded approach to goal-setting with the Woop method. The discussion also explores mental contrasting and goals for transforming behavior and achieving success.

NASA's mission to Mars raises questions about the psychological challenges astronauts face. The selection process, impact of past tragedies, emotional turmoil, and unity in space missions are explored. Courage, curiosity, and adaptability are crucial for space exploration towards establishing life on Mars.