Flow Radio

No one is coming to save you—but staying stuck isn’t the only option.Steven Kotler and Ryan Wickes welcome back Columbia professor and humanistic psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman—author of the just-released Rise Above, and one of today’s leading voices on human potential.Kaufman joins to unpack the victim mindset, the neurobiology of agency, and how narcissism, entitlement, and impostor syndrome can quietly block the path to self-actualization.At the heart of this conversation is a powerful truth: flow demands agency. When we feel powerless, we avoid challenge—and without challenge, there is no flow. A victim mindset disrupts the neural circuitry behind motivation, focus, and drive.This episode breaks down the science of that disruption—and maps out a way through. From learned helplessness to learned hopefulness, you’ll hear how reclaiming agency reactivates your growth, unlocks flow, and strengthens resilience.The journey is personal. The tools are universal.Guest Bio:Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman is a humanistic psychologist, Columbia University professor, and one of the world’s leading experts on intelligence, creativity, and human potential. Ranked in the top 1% of most-cited scientists worldwide, he’s the founder of Self-Actualization Coaching, director of the Center for Human Potential, and host of The Psychology Podcast (30M+ downloads). Named one of Business Insider’s 50 groundbreaking scientists, he’s authored 11 books—including Transcend, Choose Growth, and his latest, Rise Above.In This Episode:03:03 The Journey from Creativity to Self-Actualization06:07 Overcoming the Victim Mindset09:07 Neurobiology of Mindsets15:06 Understanding the Victim Mindset17:53 Evolutionary Perspectives on Victimhood20:53 Empathy and Honest Love25:29 Empowerment Through Adversity28:39 Challenging the Trauma Narrative32:39 Navigating the Victim Mindset45:12 Imposter Syndrome: A Signal for Growth52:08 Narcissism and WellbeingEpisode Resources:Self-Actualizing People in the 21st Century by Scott Barry KaufmanA modern, data-driven update to Maslow’s theory—complete with a validated scale and new insights into well-being, resilience, and creative expression.→ Read the full paperScott’s New Book — Rise AboveWant to go deeper on the science behind the victim mindset, resilience, and human potential?Grab Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman’s latest book, Rise Above… → scottbarrykaufman.com/books/rise-aboveFlow Radio Is Presented By Flow Research CollectiveFlow Research Collective is a leading neuroscience research company. ‍Follow Flow Research Collective:YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@flowresearchcollective⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/flowresearchcollective⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowresearchcollective⁠X: ⁠https://twitter.com/thefrc_official⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/flowresearchcollective⁠Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6RQY0d5rdlEiinHEtfWy6A⁠Website: ⁠https://www.flowresearchcollective.com⁠‍Flow Research Collective was founded by Steven Kotler, one of the world’s leading experts on human peak performance. He is an award-winning journalist and author with over ten bestselling books.

Jody Levy, an artist and serial entrepreneur, shares her insights on creativity as a survival skill and its vital role in leadership. She discusses how intuition, constraints, and rituals can unlock creativity and foster high-performance teams. The conversation dives into emotional regulation through art and decision-making in entrepreneurship, emphasizing calculated risks. Jody also highlights the upcoming Summit community event in Detroit, linking creativity, flow, and AI while advocating for community engagement and resilience in challenging times.

In a lively discussion, Peter Diamandis, founder of XPRIZE and Singularity University, dives into the future of creativity in the age of AI. He explores how artificial intelligence can enhance rather than replace human creativity, emphasizing the importance of flow states for productivity. Diamandis shares insights on the rise of the creative economy and the role of technology in unlocking human potential. With fascinating anecdotes and reflections on cognitive biases, this conversation is a beacon for creatives and entrepreneurs navigating an increasingly automated world.

Join James Lawrence, the Iron Cowboy, a world-renowned speaker and endurance athlete, as he shares his incredible journey of pushing human limits. He dives into the mind-bending flow states that emerge during extreme pain and the power of resilience. James recounts his astounding Ironman challenges, emphasizing the balance of mental strength and family. He also discusses the significance of embracing discomfort and turning doubts into motivation. This conversation is a masterclass in endurance, mindset, and redefining what’s possible.

Unlock the secrets of peak performance by diving into the science of flow states. Discover how endurance sports enhance creativity and healing, while unpacking the critical role of confidence and goal-setting in achieving athletic greatness. Explore the fascinating intersection of ADHD and mindfulness, revealing how neurodiversity shapes engagement. Enjoy insights into collective flow experiences and the power of synchrony in learning. This journey into optimal consciousness is bound to inspire your own drive to live fully.

Dive into the transformative concept of flow and its ability to unlock infinite possibilities. Discover how flow states might revolutionize aging by enhancing creativity and cognitive functions. The speakers discuss time perception changes in flow and the science behind how group synchronization occurs. Curiosity emerges as a key player in maintaining vitality, while topics like neuroplasticity and collective flow highlight its health benefits. Join this enlightening exploration of flow as a gateway to rejuvenation!

Chip Conley, a successful hospitality entrepreneur and founder of the Modern Elder Academy, joins to discuss the surprising advantages of aging. He debunks the myth of the midlife crisis, emphasizing how older minds excel in pattern recognition and emotional intelligence. Conley introduces the concept of 'ZestSpan,' highlighting the joy that can come with age. He advocates for midlife wisdom schools and stresses the importance of intergenerational connections for well-being. Discover how your best years could still be ahead!

Explore the transformative power of art and creativity in enhancing mental health and longevity. Discover how embracing an aesthetic mindset can boost cognitive abilities as we age. Dive into the surprising relationship between neurodiversity and creativity, revealing how brain challenges can spark artistic expression. Learn about the microflow phenomenon in daily art practices that improves well-being. Delve into the evolving role of AI in the creative process and how it can amplify human potential rather than replace it.

Susan Magsamen, Executive Director of the International Arts + Mind Lab, and Ivy Ross, VP of Design at Google, explore the profound impact of art on brain function and well-being. They discuss how engaging with creativity for just 20 minutes can enhance mental performance and flow. The duo highlights the healing power of artistic expression, its ability to foster social connections, and the emerging field of neuroaesthetics. They also delve into AI's role in art creation, revealing opportunities for collaboration while emphasizing the irreplaceable human touch in creativity.

Dr. Jack Feldman, a pioneering researcher in neuroscience and breathing, joins the hosts to unpack the fascinating connections between breath and emotion. They discuss how specific breathing techniques can unlock neuroplastic windows and enhance flow states. Insightfully, they explore the relationship between breathwork and psychedelic experiences, as well as the potential of short breathing exercises to reduce stress. This conversation offers scientific insights and practical tips that can transform daily life through the power of breath.