Hidden Brain

In this engaging discussion, psychologist Emily Falk from the University of Pennsylvania dives into the science behind defensiveness and our instinct to resist feedback. She shares insights on how to overcome the mental barriers that hinder self-improvement. Joining her is Keira Green, an expert on memory, who tackles listener queries about forgetfulness and the complexities of aging. Together, they explore how emotions shape our memories and provide practical strategies for managing both defensiveness and memory challenges.

Emily Falk, a psychologist and neuroscientist from the University of Pennsylvania, explores the intriguing battle between intention and action. She discusses why our subconscious often sabotages our goals, from diet choices to spending habits. Falk shares humorous anecdotes about temptations we all face. She delves into the brain's decision-making, revealing how short-term rewards clash with long-term benefits. Additionally, she highlights how social influences shape our self-perception and the struggle for personal change.

Psychologist Thomas Curran and sociologist Alison Pugh dive deep into the complexities of perfectionism. Curran discusses how the drive for perfection can lead to anxiety and depression, especially in youth, challenging the notion that higher standards always equal success. Pugh emphasizes the importance of 'connective labor'—the simple yet profound act of making others feel seen. Together, they unpack the societal pressures stemming from social media, the emotional toll of striving for unattainable ideals, and the pathway towards embracing our imperfections.

In this engaging discussion, George Bonanno, a psychologist and author, sheds light on his groundbreaking research on trauma and resilience. He explores how many people recover from tragedies faster than expected, challenging traditional views on grief. Bonanno critiques the linear model of grief stages, arguing for a more nuanced understanding of emotional responses. He emphasizes the importance of social connections in overcoming adversity and highlights that resilience isn't just about bouncing back but also about embracing growth through struggle.

Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, a psychologist and neuroscientist at USC, discusses the essence of engagement in learning. She dives into why traditional educational settings often lead to apathy and shares her own journey of discovering the power of experiential learning. Immordino-Yang highlights how emotional responses significantly affect our motivation to learn and the transformative impact of connecting personal narratives to broader societal issues. Her insights advocate for a shift in education that prioritizes curiosity, emotional engagement, and meaningful learning experiences.

Laura Carstensen, a psychologist at Stanford University and director of the Stanford Center on Longevity, discusses groundbreaking insights into aging. She explains how our emotional well-being often improves with age, challenging common stereotypes about cognitive decline. Carstensen highlights the shift in perspectives on time, which enhances social relationships and encourages savoring positive experiences. She also addresses the complex interplay between happiness, financial security, and the impact of mortality awareness on life choices, revealing the wisdom that comes with growing older.

In this discussion, psychologist Abigail Marsh, a Georgetown University expert on altruism, delves into why some individuals risk their lives to help strangers. She highlights fascinating stories of selfless acts, such as a stranger saving a driver in distress and kidney donors giving without expectation. Marsh explores the innate human drive for kindness, revealing how extraordinary altruism can emerge even in crises. Listeners are encouraged to foster their own altruistic tendencies, bridging fear and courage into meaningful actions.

Jonathan Adler, a psychologist focused on narrative psychology, shares insights on how the stories we tell ourselves can shape our mental health and well-being. He discusses the importance of reframing narratives to foster growth and resilience. Max Bazerman, a behavioral scientist at Harvard, dives into the science of negotiation, emphasizing how biases impact our decision-making. Their conversation reveals practical strategies for both personal storytelling and negotiation that can transform lives and enhance emotional wellbeing.

Massimo Pigliucci, a philosopher and author from the City College of New York, dives into the wisdom of Stoicism. He shares how Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' reveals that being stoic isn't about suppressing emotions but embracing acceptance and self-reflection. Their discussion covers harnessing Stoic principles to face life's challenges, navigating personal transitions, and dealing with health scares. Massimo emphasizes the importance of focusing on what we can control and living fully in the present, blending ancient philosophy with contemporary struggles.

Psychologist Iris Mauss, who studies happiness at UC Berkeley, reveals why chasing happiness can often make it more elusive, stressing the value of emotional acceptance and social connections. Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks from Harvard shares expert advice on improving conversations—like handling chatty or quiet partners and minimizing interruptions. They emphasize setting clear conversational goals and how embracing distress can lead to deeper relational bonds and greater contentment.