Hidden Brain

Amit Goldenberg, a Harvard psychologist, explores how collective emotions intensify and affect group dynamics. He discusses the psychological effects of social movements and how shared experiences can amplify feelings in crowds. Dimitris Xygalatas, an anthropologist, dives into the rituals of firewalking, highlighting their emotional significance and ability to forge deep connections among participants. This conversation uncovers how emotions are intertwined within communities and the power of shared rituals to shape identities.

Alison Fragale, an organizational psychologist at UNC Chapel Hill and author of 'Likeable Badass,' shares insights on navigating social perceptions. She discusses the interplay of self-promotion and modesty, offering strategies to showcase achievements authentically. The conversation highlights how women can balance authority with warmth in leadership, and how emotional connections during grief can foster support. Fragale emphasizes effective communication skills to better influence and connect with others.

In this discussion, psychologist James Pennebaker, known for his expertise in language and its impact on behavior, dives into how our word choices reveal deep insights into our mental states. He explores the role of language in understanding complex emotions, especially in the aftermath of tragedy, as seen in a poignant murder case. Additionally, he examines how gender affects language use and how expressive writing can be a healing tool. Pennebaker’s insights into the language of relationships showcase how even simple words can orchestrate connection and emotional understanding.

Dannagal Goldthwaite Young, a researcher specializing in the effects of uncertainty on behavior and perspectives, dives into how we react to the unknown. She discusses the thrill and anxiety surrounding uncertainty and its impact on decision-making. The conversation includes personal anecdotes about love, loss, and navigating life’s unpredictability, revealing how our emotional responses shape relationships and even political beliefs. Young also touches on the psychology behind differing worldviews, emphasizing the need for dialogue in understanding diverse perspectives.

In this discussion, psychologist Brad Klontz explores how unconscious beliefs shape our financial behaviors. He introduces the concept of 'money scripts' and how they are rooted in our upbringing and family histories. Klontz highlights the challenge of overcoming generational financial trauma and the importance of empathy in financial interactions. He shares insights on transforming harmful money mindsets and creating healthier financial habits, encouraging listeners to reassess their relationship with money and recognize the emotional influences at play.

Jamil Zaki, a psychologist renowned for his work on empathy and societal dynamics, discusses how disillusionment shapes our perceptions of the world. He dives into the balance between realism and hope, exploring the psychological impacts of mistrust and cynicism. Zaki highlights the dangers of a transactional mindset, advocating for the power of genuine connections and kindness. He emphasizes the necessity of fostering hope and recognizing the goodness in humanity, contrasting these ideals with the pervasive sense of despair in today’s society.

Cognitive scientist Daniel Willingham delves into the mysteries of memory, revealing how it functions and why it often eludes us. He shares personal anecdotes about common memory lapses, including the notorious struggle with forgotten passwords. Willingham emphasizes the difference between true retention and mere familiarity, advocating for effective memorization techniques like overlearning. The conversation also highlights the role of storytelling and engagement in enhancing memory retention, offering listeners actionable strategies to remember more and forget less.

In this discussion, psychologist Vanessa Patrick delves into the art of saying no and the challenges many face in setting boundaries. She examines societal pressures that influence our tendency to comply with requests, often at the cost of personal well-being. By sharing insights from research, she highlights the emotional struggles of balancing obligations with self-care. Vanessa provides practical strategies for empowered refusals, encouraging listeners to establish personal policies that align with their values for a more fulfilling life.

Cassie Mogilner Holmes, a psychologist, reveals the illusion of time scarcity that many feel today. She discusses the chaos of balancing work and family, especially post-maternity leave, and how this can lead to dissatisfaction. Cassie emphasizes the importance of mindful time management to enhance happiness and well-being. By examining personal anecdotes and research, she encourages listeners to reclaim their time for more fulfilling experiences and deeper connections, ultimately advocating for a mindful approach to life.

Nicholas Epley, a psychologist dedicated to enhancing human interactions, shares fascinating insights on the importance of connecting with others. He discusses the surprising joy that can come from striking up conversations with strangers during commutes. Epley also explores the psychological benefits of gratitude, emphasizing how expressing appreciation can transform relationships. Delving into common misconceptions about socializing, he highlights how embracing connections can greatly improve our well-being and foster deeper bonds.