All In The Mind

Lucas Dixon, a researcher and teacher at the University of Queensland Business School, dives into the enticing yet controversial world of manifesting. He explores the rise of practices like vision boards and affirmations, weighing their potential benefits against the risks of unrealistic thinking. Dixon highlights the importance of balancing aspiration with actionable steps, introducing the WOOP method for more practical goal-setting. He also delves into the fine line between positive thinking and harmful expectations, promoting a healthy skepticism in the pursuit of personal success.

Joel Pearson, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of New South Wales, discusses the psychological effects of artificial intelligence. He highlights how AI could redefine human relationships, including the emotional implications of AI companions like chatbots. The conversation touches on the mental health challenges posed by deepfakes and their potential to distort identity, particularly among youth. Pearson encourages collaboration between tech and cognitive science to ethically navigate these changes, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection in an AI-driven world.

Ethan Cross, a University of Michigan psychology professor and author of "Chatter," explores the fascinating world of our inner voice. He delves into the origins of our internal dialogue, shaped by cultural and parental influences. Cross discusses how our inner voice can be a double-edged sword, aiding self-reflection while also fueling negative emotions. He emphasizes the importance of reframing anxiety as a potential driver for growth and examines how different cultural contexts shape our self-talk. Techniques like prayer and meditation are suggested to manage mental chatter.

Patric Gagne, a sociopath and PhD, shares her transformative journey from a violent childhood to becoming an advocate for understanding sociopathy. She challenges stereotypes surrounding her condition, describing her emotional struggles and the complex relationship between sociopathy and privilege. Gagne discusses how she navigates destructive impulses, work towards healthier coping mechanisms, and embraces authenticity. Through her candid reflections, she highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of personality disorders and personal growth.

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.