The Psychology Podcast

Robert Waldinger, psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and Zen priest, discusses the findings of the longest scientific study of happiness, highlighting the power of connection. Topics covered include psychodynamic therapy, defense mechanisms, attachment, and psychological research.

In this episode, Orin Davis, a self-actualization engineer, discusses the new science of flow. He explores Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's work, studying flow at a group level. Topics include increasing flow, microflow, hypnosis, positive psychology, and self-actualization.

Michael Slepian, an expert on the psychology of secrets, discusses how secrets affect relationships and well-being. He shares a personal story of discovering a family secret and explores different categories of secrets. The podcast also covers topics like personality, morality, trauma, developmental psychology, and communication.

Monica Parker, founder of global human analytics and change consultancy HATCH, talks about the power of wonder in today's fast-paced world. She discusses her cycle of wonder framework, the importance of slowing down and pursuing meaningful exploration, and how wonder can make us more empathetic, resilient, and exuberant. They also touch on topics like personality, post-traumatic growth, mindfulness, and education.

Robert Sapolsky, a professor of biology and neurology, discusses life without free will and its consequences for the justice system and education. Topics include responsibility, punishment, mindfulness, and the illusion of agency. Sapolsky challenges the idea of meritocracy and advocates for a self-actualization focused education system.

Bob Mankoff, a renowned cartoonist and author famous for his work with The New Yorker, dives into the psychology of humor. He shares anecdotes from his creative journey and discusses the unique personality traits that shape comedians. The conversation touches on the anatomy of jokes and the impact of AI on humor and creativity. Mankoff also highlights his all-time favorite cartoons and addresses the nuances of cancel culture, showcasing how humor can foster connection while navigating societal sensitivities.

Buddhist meditation teacher Joseph Goldstein discusses impermanence and enlightenment, emphasizing the need to free the mind from attachment. Topics include mindfulness, flow, wisdom, creativity, different mind states, skillful means, and compassion.

Dan Siegel, clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA, discusses expanding the notion of the self and its implications for humanity. Topics include consciousness, neuroscience, quantum physics, and the flow state. The chapter also explores the integration of withinness and betweenness in forming our sense of self and belonging.

Nick Holton, an international speaker, consultant, trainer, and coach, discusses human flourishing in education. He emphasizes the need to address young people's need to matter and embed positive psychology principles in classrooms. They explore fostering young people inside and outside the classroom by partnering with professional sports teams and changing the education system.

Jeffrey Hull, highly sought-after facilitator, keynote speaker, and executive coach, discusses the new landscape of leadership. He highlights the importance of beta leadership, emotional intelligence, coaching, creativity, and authenticity. He also emphasizes the need to leverage perspectives from indigenous and neurodiverse communities.