The Psychology Podcast

In this discussion, Rhonda Magee, a Professor of Law and mindfulness expert, shares her journey of integrating mindfulness into racial justice work. She emphasizes the healing power of awareness and compassion in bridging racial divides and fostering understanding. Rhonda dives into personal and systemic racism, her transformative educational experiences during desegregation, and the vital role of community in confronting injustice. The conversation highlights the importance of listening, dialogue, and collective healing as pathways toward liberation and justice.

Daniel Schmachtenberger, co-founder and CEO of DeepMind, dives into the profound influence of exponential technology on society. He discusses how organizations often exploit these advancements for profit, leading to polarization and eroding trust in institutions. The conversation emphasizes the need for radical cultural enlightenment to address modern challenges. Schmachtenberger also explores the balance between personal growth and societal dynamics, advocating for innovative governance and collaborative solutions to enhance collective intelligence and resilience.

Join Todd Kashdan, a top expert on well-being and author of "The Art of Insubordination," as he dives into the power of principled dissent. He explores how breaking norms can spark positive change and shares insights on overcoming conformity. Todd discusses the essential elements of insubordination and the role of ethical rebels in creating social impact. He encourages embracing unconventional thinking and self-care, even amid potential social pushback. Plus, he highlights the surprising wisdom gained from embracing the unconventional.

Dr. Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist and founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, dives into the pandemic's landscape, expertly separating facts from myths. He discusses the ongoing controversy around ivermectin and vaccine safety, including the potential risk of myocarditis. Topol emphasizes the importance of understanding emergency use authorization for vaccines and addresses vaccine hesitancy, advocating for clear communication to counter misinformation. Ultimately, he maintains an optimistic outlook for navigating future health challenges.

Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and author, explores the quest for meaning in the latter half of life. He argues that our obsession with success often leads to unfulfilled lives and emphasizes the need to redefine what fulfillment looks like. Discussion topics include the transformative power of love, the myth of constant achievement, and the importance of relationships and community. He provides insights into navigating aging and finding deeper happiness through meaningful connections and personal evolution.

Join Andrew Yang, entrepreneur and founder of the Forward Party, as he dives into the future of American democracy. He shares insights from his political campaigns, revealing how our two-party system fuels polarization and dysfunction. Explore the psychological toll of campaigning and the struggle for authenticity amid division. Yang emphasizes the importance of shifting towards a human-centered economy, addressing tribalism, and fostering kindness in political dialogue. His vision advocates for community-building and reforming institutions for a brighter future.

Join Ayelet Fishbach, a renowned Professor of Behavioral Science and Marketing at the University of Chicago, as she shares her expertise on motivation. Explore the science behind finding the right goals and the pitfalls of the 'middle' phase in goal pursuit. Fishbach emphasizes the power of intrinsic motivation and social support in sustaining engagement. Discover how discomfort can lead to growth and why self-control is like a muscle that strengthens with practice. Her insights provide actionable strategies to boost your motivation and achieve lasting change.

Oliver Burkeman, a bestselling author and former Guardian journalist, delves deep into our relationship with time. He challenges the conventional productivity mindset, urging us to embrace our limitations and the joy of missing out. Burkeman discusses the 'efficiency trap,' how to better manage procrastination, and the concept of 'deep time.' He emphasizes finding meaning in life through acceptance and patience, and redefines success as prioritizing fulfillment over sheer productivity.

In this discussion, bestselling author Ryan Holiday delves into his latest book, *Courage is Calling*. He presents a fresh definition of courage, emphasizing its role in daily life and the importance of aligning it with justice and wisdom. Holiday critiques traditional narratives of heroism, particularly around Confederate monuments, and explores the complexities of social justice and ethical responsibility. He highlights the interplay between authenticity and courage, arguing that true bravery often requires moral sacrifices and an unwavering commitment to one's values.

In this enlightening discussion, bestselling author Robert Greene delves into the darker aspects of human nature, urging listeners to embrace their imperfections. He shares insights on strategy and seduction, while unpacking empathy, charisma, and the power dynamics at play in personal and professional relationships. Greene also touches on his forthcoming book about the sublime, exploring how moments of awe can enrich our lives. His perspectives challenge us to navigate our complexities with resilience and creativity.