Everything's Psychology

Eliane Glaser, a writer and radio producer known for her insights into culture and modern life, dives into the fascinating structure of the Hero's Journey. She discusses why stories of transformation resonate with us, linking heroic narratives to deep psychological drivers and cultural escapism. Glaser critiques the repetition of this storytelling formula, suggesting it reflects a desire for stability amid chaos. They explore how modern narratives can reinforce or subvert traditional arcs, encouraging a rethink of the stories we live by.

Dr. Paul Sacher, an AI and behavioral scientist from Imperial College London, dives into the fascinating interplay between AI and psychology. He discusses why people fear AI and the misconceptions surrounding its capabilities as a tool. From how AI aids in healthcare to its role in supporting socially anxious individuals, he shares insights on patient reactions to AI health assistants. Sacher also explores the balance between AI benefits and misuse, while highlighting AI's potential to foster sustained behavior change in health care.

Do habits really take 66 days to form? Should you rely on willpower? How does a psychologist approach overcoming their own bad habits and starting good ones?Professor Ben Gardner leads us through the intricate world of habits, exploring their definitions, the distinction between habits and routines, and the psychological mechanisms behind habitual behaviour. Professor Gardner shares insights from his extensive research, highlighting the importance of instigation habits that trigger actions and the role of willpower in habit formation and the need for a nuanced understanding of habits to effectively implement behaviour change in daily life. Find out more about Ben's work at: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/people/benjamin-gardnerSend us a textYou can watch the video of this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingsPsychology

In this engaging discussion, Claude Béata, an animal behavioralist and author of 'The Interpretation of Cats and Their Owners,' delves into the fascinating dual role of cats as both predator and prey. He emphasizes the significance of positive reinforcement in understanding their behavior. Key topics include the emotional landscape of cats, litter box preferences, the indoor vs outdoor debate, and the impact of breeding practices on health. Béata also highlights the challenges and joys of adopting rescue cats, making it a must-listen for any cat enthusiast!

What is vulnerability and how does it affect people differently? How should consumer organisations, such as banks be catering for people with characteristics of vulnerability?I chat with Dr Chris Fitch from the Money Advice Trust about the impact of being vulnerable and some of the innovative ways organisations are changing to be inclusive and accessible.Find out more about the Money Advice Trust hereListen to Chris's podcast ‘Vulnerability Matters’ on Soundcloud or search for Vulnerability Matters wherever you listen to your podcasts.Send us a textYou can watch the video of this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingsPsychology

I chat with renowned psychologist Professor Robert Epstein about how search engines are modern Skinner boxes, manipulating our choices and even our beliefs. Hear about how his research over the last 12 years shows how tech corporations such as Google and Facebook are employing techniques from behaviourism to manipulate our beliefs and opinions to influence global politics and beyond.In the show, Robert mentions the following websites:http://myprivacytips.com/https://aibrt.org/https://americasdigitalshield.com/Robert's choice of browser: https://brave.com/Robert's choice of email: https://proton.me/mailSend us a textYou can watch the video of this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingsPsychology

Lori Beth Bisbey, a psychologist and intimacy coach, dives deep into the fascinating world of kinks and fetishes. She discusses how societal perceptions and media representations shape our understanding of these practices. The conversation highlights consent and the importance of open communication in enhancing intimacy. Bisbey also explores the psychological implications of engaging in kink, the history of sexual classification in psychology, and the positive impact of sexual satisfaction on relationships. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion!

Professor Ian Walker, Professor of Psychology and Head of the School of Psychology at Swansea University, talks to me about the psychology of cycling. We also discuss how you can change people's transport behaviour, what it means to be a ‘mindful traveller’, and if it's actually safer not to wear a helmet when cycling.Find out more about Professor Walker's work at www.drianwalker.comSend us a textYou can watch the video of this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingsPsychology

Dive into the science that shapes our lives as I chat to experts to uncover unexpected areas where psychology influences us.Are search engines manipulating your beliefs? Could getting kinky improve your relationship? And why do people become obsessed with cycling?From vulnerability to vampires, and from cats to craft beer, subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts to explore if actually, Everything’s Psychology.Send us a textYou can watch the video of this episode on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingsPsychology