Ron Friedman Ph.D. shares research from his latest book The Best Place to Work, about the art and science of creating an extraordinary workplace. Ron discusses how businesses can appeal to basic psychological needs like autonomy, competence and relatedness to design a work environment which optimizes engagement and creativity. It’s an especially practical episode, where we dive into science-backed recommendations to help companies improve the hiring process, boost motivation and enhance decision making. This episode features some very interesting research, like the persuasion techniques used by hostage negotiators, as well as didactic stories about figures like Monica Seles and president Obama on the importance of unconscious thinking and leading by example.  Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-psychology-podcast/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Psychology Podcast, Dr. David Burkus discusses the latest research in organizational psychology to help business thrive in our post-industrial world. In particular, we talk about his latest book, Under New Management, which reveals the counter-intuitive leadership practices that actually enhance engagement and drive performance in companies. This is a great episode for anyone interested in what the science has to say about optimizing workplace performance. We discuss how and why top companies like Whole Foods and McDonalds are emphasizing employee satisfaction, engagement and well-being at work. We also cover topics such as perceptions of inequality, positive effects of income transparency, ditching performance appraisals, some barriers to productivity and some of the genius tactics of big companies like Zappos (who will pay you to quit you job?!).  We hope you enjoy! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-psychology-podcast/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the psychology podcast, we gain insight into the fascinating and mysterious psychology of prodigious children. Kimberly Stephens recently co-authored a book investigating the link between autism and extraordinary childhood talent called The Prodigy's Cousin, which had made her an excellent source of knowledge. We discuss the extraordinary working memory, attention to detail, passionate interest, talent development and parenting styles that tend to characterize incredible childhood skill. We also cover an interesting genetic component; research suggests that autism tends to be present in the families of prodigies. The conversation is a celebration of the high achievement, intense interest and quirky personalities expressed by prodigies like Jonathan Russell, who has been known to pass the time recreating music with household items like blenders and washing machines! It’s a fun discussion and we’re excited to share it with our listeners. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-psychology-podcast/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angela Duckworth discusses her research on grit, including its predictive power for success. The podcast explores the distinction between self-control and grit, the correlation between passion and grit, and the concept of having multiple major goals in life. It also covers the measurement of grit and the importance of criticism in scientific advancement.

James Clear studies successful people across a wide range of disciplines to uncover the habits and routines that make them the best at what they do. In this episode, we speak with James about his behavioral psychology background to uncover practical advice on how to flourish. The conversation is light and pleasant, while the content is deep and immediately useful for people looking to live better through science. Topics include habit formation, identity crafting, self-quantification and personal well-being. Enjoy and tell us what you think in the iTunes comments section! Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-psychology-podcast/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneering researcher in the psychology of self-compassion, discusses the incredible healing power of being your own ally. They explore the importance of self-compassion in navigating challenging times, debunk the misconception that it is a sign of weakness, and emphasize the transformative effects of practicing self-compassion. The podcast also covers the relationship between self-compassion and compassion for others, as well as the positive effects of self-compassion on motivation and well-being.

Dr. Emma Seppälä, author of The Happiness Track, discusses how cultivating happiness can drive achievement and hinder overextension. Pursuing meaningful relationships, gratitude, and self-compassion is more conducive to success. They explore the connection between success and happiness, the natural impulse for altruism, determinants of success, harmonious vs obsessive passion, and the importance of happiness and gratitude.

Dr. Elaine Aron, the world's expert on highly sensitive people, talks about the impact of sensitivity on self-esteem, love, leadership, personality, and genetics. The podcast also explores the relationship between introversion and being highly sensitive. Correlations between highly sensitive traits, identity, self-worth, and social interaction are discussed, along with an interesting discussion on dinner guests.

This episode explores the development of positive psychology, optimizing energy levels, creativity, personal mission, and education system. Existential topics arise as we discuss the host's battle with cancer. A refreshing look at what makes people happy and gives them a sense of meaning.

Learn about performance and leadership in sports and life from Master of Applied Positive Psychology, Paddy Steinfort, as he discusses the wisdom of beloved coach Dean Bailey. Topics include mental toughness, mindfulness, creativity, visualization, leaving a legacy, and the importance of relationships in sports psychology.