Growth Mindset Podcast

The tools of thinking that fueled the Growth Mindset and fast decisions behind the success of Jeff Bezos. Bezos frames business as a series of silent promises: to customers, to colleagues, to the future. Each promise is a primitive—simple, sturdy, waiting to be linked. When those links form, independence evolves into interdependence, and a whisper becomes a flywheel. In this conversation, we explore how “Day One” thinking keeps the path clear, how a “regret-minimization lens” invites bold choices, and why “single-threaded leadership” protects the soul of a project. Name your primitives—identify the small assets that can connect to others. Map the flywheel—draw how each promise fuels the next. Practice long-horizon thinking—act today as if seven years depend on it. How to Change the World Sam's new show can be found on major podcast players: Spotify - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1Fj3eFjEoAEKF5lWQxPJyT⁠⁠⁠⁠ Apple - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-change-the-world-the-history-of-innovation/id1815282649⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HowToChangeTheWorldPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Can't find it on your player? RSS feed - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/682b3b86696b5d1232d698a8⁠⁠⁠⁠ ------- UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

Self-help is sometimes the opposite. It can end up increasing your task list with a bunch of unrealistic expectations you never achieve. Today's conversation is about navigation, not directions. We explore the quiet difference between a compass you trust and a checklist someone sells. Passport stamps matter less than the personality you bring to the journey; so does the company you invite to walk beside you. We trade a stack of generic self-help books for three simple ideas you can put on a sticky note. The answer might not even be faster growth but perhaps wiser detours and a network that grows because we grow. Work out if a new habit is worthwhile or if you should be doing less Build a personal compass based on your own interests Show up as the person you are How to Change the World Sam's new show can be found on major podcast players: Spotify - ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1Fj3eFjEoAEKF5lWQxPJyT⁠⁠⁠ Apple - ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-change-the-world-the-history-of-innovation/id1815282649⁠⁠⁠ YouTube - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HowToChangeTheWorldPodcast⁠⁠⁠ Can't find it on your player? RSS feed - ⁠⁠⁠https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/682b3b86696b5d1232d698a8⁠⁠⁠ ------- UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

A sunflower doesn't hold strategy meetings to decide which way to grow. It simply tilts toward the light. This conversation with Dr. Harry Cohen invites us to do the same. The heliotropic effect—our quiet, evolutionary pull toward positive energy—may be the simplest, most overlooked lever of leadership and community. We explore what happens when you become the light source instead of chasing it. Why a six-second smile hacks brain chemistry, how a clean apology resets trust faster than any marketing funnel, and what my own networking face-plant taught me about social tax. Take homes: Swap “small talk” for small wins to trigger instant rapport Schedule a daily 1 % kindness rep and track the ripple Deploy the two-word apology before your ego drafts excuses How to Change the World Sam's new show can be found on major podcast players: Spotify - ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1Fj3eFjEoAEKF5lWQxPJyT⁠⁠ Apple - ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-change-the-world-the-history-of-innovation/id1815282649⁠⁠ YouTube - ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HowToChangeTheWorldPodcast⁠⁠ Can't find it on your player? RSS feed - ⁠⁠https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/682b3b86696b5d1232d698a8⁠⁠ ------- UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

Uncover what it really takes to build greatness. There's much more to genius than effortless intelligence or risky business bets. We dive into the consistent habits that drive long-term results for coming out on top. They might not be sexy, but if you can leave your ego at the doo,r there's a lot more on the other side. How to Change the World Sam's new show can be found on major podcast players: Spotify - ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1Fj3eFjEoAEKF5lWQxPJyT⁠ Apple - ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-change-the-world-the-history-of-innovation/id1815282649⁠ YouTube - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HowToChangeTheWorldPodcast⁠ Can't find it on your player? This is the RSS feed - ⁠https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/682b3b86696b5d1232d698a8⁠ ------- UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

Ever wondered how to really change the world? After thinking about the question for too long, Sam has started a new podcast to answer it. His new show 'How To Change The World' tells the stories of the greatest innovations throughout the entire history of humanity. As he goes, he'll be breaking down the mental models and frameworks for change. If you've enjoyed some of our episodes where we talk about the mindset lessons from incredible figures from history, there will be plenty of that and more. The show can be found on major podcast players: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1Fj3eFjEoAEKF5lWQxPJyT Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-change-the-world-the-history-of-innovation/id1815282649 Can't find it? This is the RSS feed - https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/682b3b86696b5d1232d698a8 ------- UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

You're not lazy. You're overloaded. And no, another productivity hack won't save you. In this episode, I talk about how minimalism isn't about white walls and hidden kitchen bins—it's about your calendar, your relationships, your identity. I unpack the joy of missing out using stories from travel, creative burnout, and watching a guy walk around Britain with nothing but a backpack. Turns out, when you're doing too much, you're not living—you're buffering. We explore how having too many goals is like trying to break a window with a handful of dust. Want more focus? You have to do less. Three things you'll learn: Why doing less actually makes you better at what matters How owning less clears mental space (not just your room) A question to instantly identify what's worth saying “no” to Want your brain back? Hit play. UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

Love isn't just a feeling, it's a pattern. And patterns, when understood, can be changed. We are the descendants of beings who bonded, lusted, and survived—not by chance, but by biology. In this episode, we explore the elegant architecture of love, divided into three distinct experiences: lust, attraction, and attachment. Each has its own hormonal symphony: testosterone's drive, dopamine's thrill, oxytocin's warmth. But these chemicals, while essential, are not our destiny. We must choose how we respond to them. The opportunity lies in seeing love not just as passion, but as a practice—a practice of self-awareness, empathy, and intentionality. Reframe love from chaos to conscious experience. Observe your emotions without becoming them. Build connection that outlasts dopamine spikes. Your biology is the system, but your awareness can evolve it. UPGRADE to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠:

A system that grows stronger from chaos? That's not science fiction. It's nature's original design. Nassim Taleb's Antifragile isn't just a book. It's a lens—a way to see the world not as a series of risks to be avoided, but as opportunities to evolve. In this episode, we explore what it means to thrive in disorder. From ancient myths like the Hydra, to modern jobs and biological systems, we trace the pattern: fragility is punished, antifragility is rewarded. What if you built a life where setbacks made you better, not bitter? Where unpredictability wasn't a threat, but a catalyst? That's the shift we're inviting you to make. Takeaways: Design your systems to gain from shocks, not just resist them. Embrace small failures—they prevent catastrophic ones. Seek environments where your upside grows with uncertainty. WORKSHOP - Building certainty in an uncertain world

Cognitive bias. False memory. The Dunning-Kruger effect. What do they all have in common? They show how unreliable our minds can be. In this episode, we explore the science and philosophy of self-knowledge. From flawed reasoning and failed planning to empathy gaps and epistemic humility. But explained using normal English... Along the way, we uncover powerful tools to help you become more reliable, more curious, and a little less wrong. WORKSHOP - Building certainty in an uncertain world

People avoid you for reasons that have nothing to do with your deodorant. You can be smart, talented, even funny—but if people feel unseen or misunderstood around you, your life gets smaller. Dr. Steven Stein has tested emotional intelligence in everyone from Air Force recruiters to reality TV contestants. And the results are weirdly human. EQ isn't about being soft. It's about knowing when to shut up, when to speak up, and when to walk away. This episode breaks down emotional intelligence like it's a muscle group: you've got to work it, stress it, and recover from it. Steven explains the science, shares unexpected stories (like lighthouse keepers and narcissists), and makes EQ feel practical We explore:

There are a million ways to waste time. We don't need a million and one ways to be productive. We just need to - Do The Thing It's easy to overcomplicate productivity: Over analysing your habits Over examing your past Over sharing your strategies. These are all effective ways to not be productive. In this episode, we cut through the fluff and focus on the pure, simple truths. Workshop - Building certainty in an uncertain world

We don't see the future. We predict it — and sometimes we predict disaster before it's even possible. Catastrophizing is a mental reflex. It's your mind, desperate for control, drawing monsters where none exist yet. In this episode, we explore the quiet space between stimulus and story — the moment you could choose curiosity over certainty. Relationships, careers, self-worth: all suffer when we confuse our imagined outcomes with inevitable truths. But if we learn to watch the story unfold without believing it, something remarkable happens. We reclaim possibility. You'll leave with: Understanding of how the brain creates fear to protect itself Tools for building awareness instead of reaction A framework for making peace with uncertainty — and using it to grow The psychology that makes false fears feel real Stop letting your brain run disaster drills for things that haven't happened. Tune in. Workshop - Building certainty in an uncertain world

What if the person you think you are is an outdated idea? In this episode, we explore how habits form—not from logic, but from history. From childhood rules to adult rituals, your behaviours aren't just choices. They're echoes. We look at behavioural debt: how the past continues to extract payments from your present and what you can do about it. We look expansively at different ways we pick up all these habits and identities, and then use 5 ideas from psychology and philosophy to fix them. There's a monk shedding illusions, a writer who redefined his identity, and a cycling team that changed everything with 1% improvements. These aren't just stories. They're invitations—to become intentional, to design rituals that serve who you want to be, not who you used to be. Takeaways: Reframe your identity as something you craft, not inherit Use “identity microshifts” to pay off your behavioural debt Hack your own Fresh Start Effect—even on a random Tuesday Learn how to become yourself through subtraction instead of adding more things If you've ever felt like your habits were someone else's or like your current actions no longer serve who you are, this episode will make a lot of sense to you. The real work isn't in learning more—it's in unlearning what no longer fits. Feedback

How often do you say no? In this episode, I unpack the beautiful mess that is boundary-setting—with stories, psychology, and a touch of Brexit. This episode dives deep into what it really means to assert your needs. Boundaries aren't about building walls—they're more like installing a front door with a lock you actually use. We explore why people-pleasing kills self-respect, how resentment creeps in when you're too “nice,” and why your future depends on the limits you're willing to draw today. What you'll take away: 10 signs of poor boundaries How to spot a weak boundary before it drains your energy Why saying no can be the kindest thing you do You teach people how to treat you by what you tolerate How to identify emotional manipulation in everyday relationships A quadrant model that makes difficult conversations easier Listen now if you're ready to stop being agreeable and start being respected. Feedback

What separates those who break from those who bend? A shift—not in strength, but in perspective. In today's episode, we look at the 4 quadrants of mental resilience: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence —using a blend of metaphors, Stoic wisdom, and powerful stories from history. Think of your mind like a car: control is the steering wheel, commitment is the fuel, challenge is the terrain, and confidence? That's your engine. From Helen Keller to Joan of Arc, you'll see how legendary mental strength isn't born—it's built. Plus, learn why reacting to criticism like a calm kung-fu master might be your new superpower. Mental toughness isn't built in heroic moments; it's forged in the quiet choice to show up again. Reflect on where you place your power: inside or out? Anchor your goals in systems, not wishful thinking. Let difficulty be your teacher, not your warning sign. If you're ready to change how you see resilience, this episode will shift everything. Feedback

There's only so much logic you can apply to your problems, at some point you need to work with your biology. The nervous system it an incredible organ built to help you survive and it can over-ride your conscious processing at will. To stop tripping over our barriers and build true resilience, reduce stress & feel more alive we need there is a way. Working with your nervous system instead of against it. On the show we invite Esin Pinarli a licensed therapist and expert in working with our nervous system to give us a masterclass on turning discomfort into growth. Three Takeaways: Your nervous system doesn't want you to succeed—it wants you to survive. Discomfort is a signal, not a stop sign. You grow by expanding your window of tolerance, not by breaking through it. Real personal growth doesn't come from reading another book or “thinking positive.” It comes from your body. From doing the hard thing, just a little bit at a time. We talk about titration (small steps), edge surfing (riding discomfort), and how your brain actually rewires itself when you face fear—gracefully. Turns out, the part of your brain responsible for willpower literally grows when you push yourself. This is about learning to stretch without snapping. To build a stronger relationship with yourself—one uncomfortable moment at a time. Related Episodes Neuroscience of Fear - Spotify - Apple 4 Hidden Fears sabotaging your life - Spotify - Apple Stephen Porges: Polyvagal Theory and building inner peace - Spotify - Apple Jessica Baum: Attachment theory and relationships - Spotify - Apple Edge Surfing: How to slow down time - Spotify - Apple Feedback

The problem with being human is that we believe our version of truth is the truth. Not because we're bad—but because we're wired that way. This episode is a story of blindness. Not the kind you see—but the kind you don't even know you have. You're not as open-minded as you think. That's not an insult—it's just how the brain works. We shortcut. We judge. We protect our ego like it's a vintage vinyl. In this episode, I dive into the strange ways our own minds trick us into thinking we're rational, original, and morally superior. I walk through how prejudice isn't just about race—it's about music, anger, taste, careers, and even your opinion of running. You'll hear about blind spots in your day-to-day that quietly shape your reality, and how to start noticing them before they run the show. Takeaways: Why your opinions probably aren't your own Why improving your taste is more important than finding your passion A simple trick to challenge your ego without bruising it You can't change the world if you can't first question the lens you're using to see it. This episode won't change your mind—you will. Feedback Sam is launching a workshop for building certainty in an uncertain world Opinions here https://form.jotform.com/250963827592368 Upgrade to Premium:

Ever notice how you'll curse for days when stuck in traffic but never celebrate hitting all green lights? Your brain's flaw-detection software is working overtime. In our quest for the ideal—the perfect relationship, the flawless investment, the dream career—we often miss the opportunity to appreciate what's already working. This isn't about lowering standards; it's about recognizing diminishing returns and the opportunity costs of perfectionism. Gratitude research shows that people who accept small imperfections actually experience more satisfaction and happiness. It's not about settling—it's about optimizing for what truly matters and recognizing the diminishing returns of chasing perfection. Identify what's truly non-negotiable versus what's just a small cost of admission See where you get stuck in diminishing returns of perfectionism and break out of the cycle Reframe "tolerating flaws" as "accepting the whole, complex reality" of what you value Ready to stop obsessing over small flaws and start enjoying the ride? Your ticket to a more satisfying life is waiting. Related Episodes How to stop catastrophising Psychology of Control - Why your brain overcomplicated everything How to build emotional intelligence Upgrade to Premium:

The psychology of mental strength and how to achieve your goals. The path to extraordinary achievement isn't paved with enjoyment. It's built on something far more powerful: alignment with our deepest values. Sustainable motivation comes not from the pleasure of the journey but from how we connect our actions to what matters most to us. This isn't about willpower or discipline—it's about meaning-making. When we frame our challenges within the context of our personal values, we transform mundane or difficult tasks into meaningful steps toward who we wish to become. The student studying for exams, the entrepreneur facing rejection, the artist pushing through creative blocks—all can tap into this deeper well of motivation by connecting present struggles to future purpose. Topics: The real source of mental strength 4 exercises to build the right type of motivation How to live closer to your values What if your next challenge became not a test of endurance but an expression of who you are becoming? Related Episodes 3 habits of mental strength Psychology of Fear How to build emotional intelligence Upgrade to Premium:

What if the key to unlocking your potential was already within you, nestled within the folds of your own mind? Today we're diving into the science and psychology of hypnosis. It isn't about stage tricks or loss of control. It's about accessing a state of focused attention where the critical mind steps aside, allowing for profound change. Not only do we learn about how the subconscious mind can be accessed but the techniques and ways that work, backed by science. It's the difference between forcing yourself to diet and naturally craving healthier foods. Between lying awake, anxious, and drifting effortlessly into restorative sleep. It's not about what you do, but how you perceive. In this state, pain can become bearable, fears can dissolve, and long-held patterns can shift. Understanding hypnosis is a reminder that our experience of reality is malleable, shaped by the lens through which we view it. What is going on in the brain during hypnosis Explore self-hypnosis as a tool for personal growth Reframe challenges using hypnotic visualization Ads - Hypnozio A revolutionary self-hypnosis app. Hypnozio.com - Code GROWTH15 Related Episodes Loud Thoughts: Anxierty, Depression, ADHD & the Default Mode Network Psychology of Fear How to stop catastophising Fun videos: Kenny Craig's hypnosis dinner date Ellen Degeneres being hypnotised to stop smoking Tim Ferris interviewing Dr David Spiegel about hypnosis - Sources: To see sources please scroll to the bottom because there are many... Upgrade to Premium:

What if the path to a meaningful life isn't paved with comfort, but with deliberate discomfort? In this episode, we explore the insidious nature of "flabbiness" - not just of body, but of mind and spirit. We'll uncover how our modern world lulls us into a state of complacent existence, and why the easy path often leads to the hardest life. Through stories of transformation and philosophical insights, we'll challenge the notion that happiness comes from avoiding difficulty. Instead, we'll discover how embracing challenge and responsibility can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment. This isn't just about self-improvement; it's about redefining what it means to truly live in a world that often encourages us to merely exist: Choose your hard: Decide which difficulties are worth embracing Create your own resistance: Design challenges that grow you Reframe comfort: See ease as a tool, not a destination Are you ready to trade comfort for meaning? The choice is yours. Upgrade to Premium:

We're all blind to our own patterns. Even when we think we're self-aware, there's a whole universe of emotional blocks lurking beneath the surface. Most of us walk around thinking we understand ourselves, but the reality is we're operating on autopilot. This episode features coach Tracy Litt, a performance coach who reveals how seemingly innocent behaviours can actually be fear mechanisms in disguise. The conversation gets deeply personal as Sam confronts his own emotional avoidance, exploring why he distracts himself during vulnerable moments and can struggle to fully express emotions. Tracy explains how our brains create clever diversions precisely when we need to feel something deeply, and offers practical ways to break through these invisible barriers. Take homes: Start a judgment journal to track how often you critically evaluate yourself and others Practice intentional emotional release through techniques like guided screaming Use fear as a GPS—when something scares you, it's probably pointing toward your growth Ready to uncover what's really holding you back? Listen now and prepare for some uncomfortable but transformative insights. Upgrade to Premium:

Bruce Lee wasn't just a martial arts icon. He was a master of mental discipline, using six powerful habits that transformed his approach to life and success. Bruce's journey reveals how deliberate practice shaped his legendary status. Instead of fearing failure, he embraced it as a teacher, carrying notebooks everywhere to capture insights that became contracts with himself. His methods were surprisingly practical—reading voraciously across diverse subjects, daily goal recitation, and blending Eastern philosophy with Western training techniques. This episode explores how Lee's training wasn't based on natural talent but rather his "fanatical" dedication, adapting everything from weightlifting to fencing to create something entirely new. "Absorb what is useful, Discard what is not, Add what is uniquely your own" - Bruce Lee His willingness to challenge traditions while respecting foundations made him revolutionary in multiple domains. Takeaways: Start carrying a notebook to capture ideas and insights, reflecting on them regularly Practice goal recitation daily to encode your ambitions into your subconscious Read widely outside your expertise to create unique mental connections Ready to transform your mindset? Press play to unlock Bruce Lee's blueprint for unstoppable growth. Upgrade to Premium:

What if the greatest barrier to your success isn't what you don't know, but what you think you know that simply isn't so? This episode explores the subtle architecture of stupidity – not as a personal failing, but as a series of distinct patterns that emerge in all human thinking. We'll journey through seven varieties, from the straightforward lack of cognitive ability to the more insidious systemic stupidity that quietly infects organizations and societies. You'll discover how the most brilliant minds often fall prey to overthinking stupidity, rejecting elegant solutions in favor of complex ones. We'll examine how groups collectively generate stupidity that no individual would create alone, and how our identities and egos become entangled with ideas, making us defend positions that no longer serve us or reflect reality. Learnings: Build decision-making systems that protect against collective cognitive blindspots Identify which stupidity patterns you are prone to. Develop your intellectual honesty muscle using "What would convince me I'm wrong?" Join us in reimagining how we think about thinking – because understanding stupidity might be the most intelligent thing we can do. Upgrade to Premium:

What if the path to happiness isn't where all the spotlights are shining? While most seek contentment in the thin slice of "now," true fulfilment lives in a paradox. We're stuck in what I call "now-ish" thinking—that anxiety-producing zone of yesterday's failures and tomorrow's deadlines. We're taught to live in the moment, yet rarely consider where our moments are leading us. True happiness requires an honest look at your 30-year trajectory. Are you building skills you want to master for decades? Hanging with friends who'll still challenge you in 2055? The work that drains you today will absolutely crush your soul twenty years from now. But immediate happiness isn't found in some mystical future achievement either. Small daily habits can make a big difference to the quality of our days from opening up deeper conversations to knocking on the door of our limits. Practical lessons this episode: Stop obsessing over now-ish problems and pay attention to what really matters The way to keep potential alive Choose one focus each day rather than drowning in endless possibilities Upgrade to Premium:

The mind does a lot of things we are never aware of. You don't think about how you move or digest, your mind just does it in the background, You also can't witness all the self-sabotaging doors your mind keeps you locked up in. We all have our own battles that limit us. Maybe how we think about money, or relationships or our own value. Maybe we get nervous about situations and it's our nerves that actually cause the problem we are afraid of. Today guest Jeff Bauhner shares a radical idea for how to communicate with your subconscious processes and get them working in your favour. How can we talk to our subconscious? What should we change? Why do we keep overlooking our real problems? Jeff has a very relatable story that leads him to his work and shares some fun and potentially radical ideas. As a scientist myself I was skeptical about some of his proposals. I was equally excited about how he came to some similar conclusions I do recommend myself but with a very different pathway. Jeff Buehner X - @Jeff_Buehner Book - The Sultans 7 Secrets Upgrade to Premium:

We all know smart people make dumb decisions. But why? Why do gamblers double down when they should walk away? Why do we check our phones 58 times a day? Why do people micromanage their partners and get confused when they become distant? We are all suckers for the illusion of control. We are convinced that our meddling is needed to achieve our desired outcome. Sadly this misses the important fact that we are causing all our problems. The episode covers all sorts of personal problems from addictions to relationships, investing to anger and how control is at the heart of our problems. Whether you are high on neuroticism or curious about how the mind works we have a tonne of good stuff: Recognize your "control triggers" – situations where your grip tightens and makes things worse Practice intentional surrendering in low-stakes situations to build your letting-go muscles Replace control with curiosity by asking "What happens if I don't try to fix this?" Learn to stop wrestling with life and start dancing with it. Upgrade to Premium:

What if misery wasn't something that happened to you—but something you unknowingly created? We all have habits that screw us over—whether it's blaming others, scrolling mindlessly on Instagram, or convincing ourselves that “next week” is when we'll finally start living. In this episode, I'm calling out the seven most toxic habits that keep people stuck in their own misery - they're probably (some) things you're doing right now. I'll break down why these habits exist, how society reinforces them, and what you can do to stop being your own worst enemy. Takeaways: Why waiting for “perfect” is the ultimate excuse for staying stuck. How playing the victim robs you of your power (and your future). The brutal truth about self-care—and why it's not what you think. Ready to ditch the habits holding you back? Dig in =) Upgrade to Premium:

Ever feel like life's pulling you in a direction you didn't choose? Like you're paddling against a current, but the harder you try, the further you drift? From social media algorithms to career paths, we're all caught in currents we barely notice. They can sweep us toward growth or drag us into chaos. Whether it's influencers chasing clicks or careers locking us into identities we never wanted, these currents are everywhere. But here's the good news: just like in the ocean, you can learn to spot them and decide which ones to ride. By the end of this episode, you'll have the tools to navigate life's most powerful force—momentum—and steer toward a future you actually want. Takeaways: How small decisions snowball into massive consequences (good or bad). Why blaming “the system” won't save you—and what will? How to identify the “currents” shaping your decisions and behaviours. Once you see these currents, you'll never look at your life the same way again. Upgrade to Premium:

How to boost creativity and productivity with a gentle yet dedicated approach to getting the best of yourself Fun fact: The average person has 6,200 thoughts per day. Most creatives capture zero of them. What if the secret to unleashing your creative potential isn't finding inspiration, but building systems that make creativity inevitable? That's why we have Jeremy Enns on the show. He's built a system that turns random thoughts into profitable content. Every. Single. Day. We cover: How to stop hoarding mediocre ideas and start executing great ones Why your "perfect" creative routine is killing your productivity The "Marathon Project" framework that makes average creators extraordinary Driven by his creative output, Jeremy's latest business makes over 100k in profit a year, . On the journey, he's also started and scrapped over 20 creative projects and coached several hundred clients on improving their creative work. This episode isn't just theory. It's his exact process. The same one that's helped him: Write a daily newsletter Build multiple 6-figure businesses Master sustainable creative productivity No fluff. No "productivity hacks." Just systems that scale. Perfect for: Content creators, creative entrepreneurs, and anyone who's ever stared at a blank page wondering where all their good ideas went. Time to turn your creative chaos into content that converts. Whether you're struggling with creative block, seeking to optimize your productivity workflow, or aiming to develop a sustainable content creation strategy, this episode provides actionable frameworks to enhance your creative output. Premium listeners get access to an exclusive 15-minute segment covering: A deep dive about deep dives Where burnout comes from and what to do about it How to love your creative work Upgrade to Premium:

Learn the 5 laws of creation and how to apply a growth mindset to improving anything you do. The awkward thing about finding our calling. Is that our calling isn't out there looking for us. It's easy to be stuck in mediocrity waiting for the perfect moment or for that ambiguous feeling that we are totally ready and blessed with pre-ordained approval to start our ideas. These days knowledge is abundant and easily accessible. What's scarce is the willingness to show up, create, and launch our thoughts into the world before we feel ready. In this episode: How the world is changing and the new laws of opportunity Instead of waiting for permission, you can create opportunities for yourself How to stop asking "Am I good enough?" and build a framework to continuously improve at anything you do. Upgrade to Premium:

Navigating the great paradoxes of the heart. What if everything we believed about perfect relationships was exactly what held us back from creating meaningful ones? Consider a few classic paradoxes: In our quest for closeness, we often create distance Distance often brings you closer Your partner's annoying habits, might actually be their best qualities.... This episode explores the delicate threads that weave together seemingly contradictory truths in relationships, Key topics: Learn to identify when your "weaknesses" are actually relationship superpowers Stop trying to fix your relationship and start understanding its paradoxes Why being "needy" isn't always bad (and why pretending you're not is worse) Get real about what healthy conflict actually looks like These paradoxes aren't problems to solve, but gateways to understanding the profound complexity of human connection. Time to stop chasing perfection and start building something real. Your next breakthrough in understanding relationships isn't in resolving these paradoxes – it's in learning to dance with them. Upgrade to Premium:

The paradox of loneliness: The more we fear loneliness, the more we scare people away. Connection is our birthright. Yet in our rush to avoid loneliness, we often make things worse. This is a story about the paradox at the heart of human relationships. But it's also a story about possibility. Key takeaways: Practical strategies to build confidence and attract healthy relationships The 7 hidden ways fear of loneliness sabotages relationships Understanding the distinction between solitude and loneliness Building the courage to be authentically seen Creating relationships that enhance rather than complete you We're diving deep into the psychology of fear, relationships, and mindsets. Whether you want stronger relationships romantically, with friends, or at work. This episode will help you learn about the subtle balance of independence, co-dependence and interdependence. Upgrade to Premium:

76% of people regularly break promises to themselves - Why do we keep letting ourselves down? The uncomfortable truth about why your self-improvement efforts keep failing: it's not about motivation. It's about managing the gap between who you are and who you want to be. This episode breaks down the exact psychology behind why we disappoint ourselves (hint: your brain is lying to you) and gives you 5 practical systems to fix it. No fluff. No guru BS. Just actionable frameworks. What you'll learn: How to kill your past self (respectfully) Five counter-intuitive strategies that actually work (backed by science) How to upgrade your mental software without becoming a self-help robot Upgrade to Premium:

A high IQ isn't useful if you can't make decent life decisions. Drawing from neuroscience and behavioural psychology, this episode delivers practical frameworks for cognitive development. You'll discover: No-nonsense tools to stop overthinking and start actually learning from your mistakes Real-world examples of how reflection beats raw intelligence A simple system for turning life's patterns into practical wisdom Research-basked methods for implementing reflection practices and deliberate learning Backed by real examples and zero fluff, this episode shares timeless principles that work for anyone, regardless of IQ. Perfect for ambitious professionals seeking to optimize their cognitive performance and decision-making capabilities. Upgrade to Premium:

Ego loves company. But success? Success loves silence. Ever noticed how the loudest person in the room rarely has the most interesting thing to say? There's a reason for that. And it's the same reason why Elizabeth Holmes is in prison while the world's best operators are probably people you've never heard of. In this episode: - The "Washington Protocol": How America's first president used strategic humility to build an empire (and why modern leaders keep missing the point) - Lehman Brothers' $600 billion ego trip: A masterclass in how NOT to handle success - The Blockbuster Effect: When being the best becomes your worst enemy This isn't just another episode about ego. It's a blueprint for building the kind of confidence that whispers instead of shouts. Because real success? It doesn't need a megaphone. Related reading: Ego is the Enemy - Ryan Holiday A New Earth - Eckhart Tolle Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself - Michael Singer Upgrade to Premium:

Make time your secret weapon. Our success and happiness are often eroded by the 7 habits of highly impatient people. We are losing the ability to focus and glorify instant success. Thus we lose the ability to stick with anything and create meaningful work. This episode goes through the psychology and philosophy of taking a slower and deeper approach to life: Understand the causes behind our poor attention spans Create resilience in your work Grow lasting momentum instead of bursts of speed From ancient stoic philosophers to the latest neuroscience. The signs are all put together in the episode that will help you focus your life and make time work towards your success. Upgrade to Premium:

What If Everything You Knew About Success Was Backward? Our lives are shaped by contradictions: The harder we chase happiness, the further it seems. The more freedom we gain, the more constrained we feel. You need money to be happy, but then chasing money makes you miserable. The more we learn, the more we realize we know absolutely nothing These are some of life's paradoxes, and they are as profound as they are puzzling. In this episode, we explore 16 of these paradoxes, breaking down their underlying logic and what they reveal about the human condition. We'll unpack why they exist, how they shape your life without you even noticing, and how to embrace the absurdity instead of letting it drive you insane. Drawing on philosophy, psychology, and practical insights, we'll show how embracing these paradoxes can lead to a richer, more intentional life. It's an invitation to think deeply, challenge assumptions, and find clarity in life's complexities. Upgrade to Premium:

What if the path to true growth begins with admitting how little you actually know? The teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates tells us to use questions to expose holes in conventional thinking. If you enjoy learning about psychology, self-development, and the inner workings behind success, you'll discover proven wisdom from ancient Greece on getting out of your own way. Hear unique Socratic tactics for: Questioning assumptions Overcoming knowledge bias Admitting what you don't know. Learn more about the psychology of Stoicism, critical thinking, and the inner workings of progress. Socrates is the master at helping us live more thoughtfully and discover our own blindspots. Upgrade to Premium:

Timeless laws to focus on what matters and live free of stress and anxiety. No matter what life throws your way this year, adopting a Stoic mindset can set you up for both success and satisfaction. Join our host, Sam Webster Harris, as he walks through 24 powerful Stoic rules that are just as important today as 2000 years ago. The lessons will help you develop more mindfulness, discipline, generosity, calmness, and contentment in your life. We'll tackle big ideas like controlling what you can control, letting go of resentment, and finding joy in simple things. So tune in to learn how embracing voluntary discomfort, practising gratitude, and reviewing your actions can help you achieve equanimity and personal growth. With a little bit of Stoic philosophy in your back pocket, you'll be ready to handle whatever comes your way with grace and wisdom. Episode recommendations: Gratitude Lessons (That Don't Suck) Diagnose and Fix Your Real Problems Upgrade to Premium:

Genius decision-making strategies to build wisdom in your everyday decisions. Annie Duke is the author of Thinking in Bets - A book full of genius psychology and poker tips to help you build mental models to make better decisions. Annie is a psychologist studying cognitive behavioural decision science and in her life as a professional poker player she won the World Series. She was even the highest-paid female player in history when she retired. Her psychology helped her poker and her poker helped her psychology. The summation of her lessons are wrapped up in the book 'thinking in bets' and in today's episode I break down my 5 favourite rules and mental models from the book that are worth using in your life. At a simple level, building wisdom is the process of making better decisions. Nothing more. so that's what we're going to learn about today Related episodes 163: Making bets that pay off - Annie Duke - 23rd March 2021 Thinking Fast and Slow - 12th July 2024 Upgrade to Premium:

The laws of physics are the only true limits, stop letting your brain set fake limits. We accrue all sorts of limiting beliefs for different reasons. Our culture and reference points hide them from us. Or fear of failure keeps us small. This episode explores the psychology of self-limiting beliefs and fixed mindset ideas that sit hidden and unchallenged in our mind. These limiting beliefs sabotage our potential and the only way to stop them it to take ownership of your own thoughts. We explore: How mental barriers form and get accepted What ingredients make a genius Neuroplasticity and performance at any age The best strategies to grow your comfort zone As we launch into 2025 it's a great time to reflect on what has held us back and raise our bar for this year. This episode will help you set your sights higher and uncover the areas of potential you have untapped. This episode carries on the mini-series on goals and achievement: Journey vs Destination - Choosing the right goals Stop dreaming, start doing - The magic of actually doing stuff What are the top 5 Reasons we Fail to achieve our goals. Previous season on Fear: The Neuroscience of Fear: Understanding anxiety, trauma & tools to overcome fear 4 Hidden Fears that Secretly Sabotage Your Life 3 Tactics to Leave Your Comfort Zone and Overcome Fear of Failure The Psychology of Fear, Security and Emotional Intelligence (PolyVagal Theory) The Secrets Behind Curiosity Without Worry (Stephen Porges) How To Stop Catastrophising Upgrade to Premium:

The psychology of beating procrastination, inaction, and confusion that lets you systematically work towards any goal. Goal setting is easy - Goal achieving is a very different thing. We dig into the main causes and the often small but subtle tweaks we can make that keep us in check. Using ideas from psychology and ancient wisdom we see how humans have dealt with the big hairy ambitious goals over history and how you can too: Task Initiation Paralysis - Shows us how Charles Darwin overcame the most complex tasks in history. Ulysses Contracts - Teaches us how Victor Hugo wrote the timeless Hunchback of Notre Dame ahead of schedule by engineering his environment. Effective vs Fluffy Intentions - How psychologists helped heart surgery patients double their success rates through a simple sentence change. Sam also lists some of the most effective resources and tools you can access to stay on track to beat the common problems we face. This episode carries on the mini-series on goals and achievement: Journey vs Destination - Choosing the right goals Stop dreaming, start doing - The magic of actually doing stuff Upgrade to Premium:

Stop Dreaming, Start Doing - Action is more important than planning. We are increasingly addicted to planning yet more and more allergic to doing. Get your ducks in a row this year as we learn about the psychology behind our goals and dreams and what it takes to knuckle down, make some hard decisions and start taking action. We discuss some key concepts: What is our real work The problem with motivation and aspirations Waiting for life to blow us in the right direction 4 Burners theory Sam also shares his own results, including the failures and successes behind taking bigger leaps and focusing on your main goals. Upgrade to Premium:

What does it mean to live a good life? The Stoics were the masters of asking the right questions to focus the mind on what's important. At the year's end, it's a perfect time to reflect on who you've been this year and who you want to be going forward. We juggle multiple priorities and hectic demands, so it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day. Today's episode will combine Psychology with Stoicism as we ask the most important questions we can of ourselves to help direct our lives in the direction we want them to take. Topics include: Turning obstacles into opportunity Overcoming the fears that hold us back Simplifying our life Walking the walk Taking control of our responsibilities. Nowhere can man find a quieter or more untroubled retreat than in his own soul: Inner peace comes from self-awareness and reflection" Upgrade to Premium:

Why do we get off track, and how do we get back on track? Humans love goals, but where do our goals come from? How much do we choose them vs. have them chosen for us... We learn how to stop working towards destinations that look good to others. Instead, we dissect what makes a good goal that creates a journey we want to go on. Topics include: The reality of aspirational destinations Focussing on the journeys of your life A healthy relationship with money How to stay motivated The rule of thirds As we learn more about appreciating the road less travelled and what a good life means to us we can step back from the frenetic distractions and occupations to think about what really matters. As the famous saying goes "It's just another cold dark night on the side of Everest" - Sometimes our goals feel boring in the day-to-day and we lose sight of the big picture. Remember there is something worth fighting for. Upgrade to Premium:

The science behind spreading Christmas cheer and getting people to like you. Not only is Elf a wonderfully silly and enjoyable Christmas movie. Its premise is based on a fascinating concept that can be explored using psychology. What happens when an adult is raised by elves? Not only do we get to revisit a great story but we can learn about: Attachment Theory Identity Development Social Contagion and spreading good vibes Family Systems Nuerodivergence and upbringing effects The psychology of Jor and Wonder A great way to learn some science and develop your own sense of curiosity and wonder is to dive headfirst down rabbit holes of psychology and overly analyse movies for the sheer hell of it. It's a great movie and there's lots to learn about ourselves, Christmas and happiness when we look beyond the candy canes and maple syrup. Upgrade to Premium:

What does psychology say about the role of information in building wisdom and lasting change in our lives? There is an explosion in self-help content. From gurus on Tik Tok to 85,000 self-help books being published a year. But what actually works? This episode explores the psychology of learning and how to put information into practice: How to identify time-wasting nonsense? 3 steps to build a healthy content diet The best forms of content for retention and lasting changes? Take home strategy to build deeper wisdom You'll come away with an improved growth mindset that doesn't fall for promises of instant results and is ready to put time and effort into cultivating wisdom instead of consuming it. Recommended Books: Slow Productivity - Cal Newport The Power of Habit - Charles Duhigg Pachinko - Min Jin Lee Wild Swans - Jung Chang Replay - Ken Grimwood Dalai Lama's Cat - David Michie And The Mountains Echoed - Khaled Hosseini The Mood Of Future Joys - Alastair Humphreys Siddartha - Herman Hesse Science References: Dr Robert Sternberg - What is Wisdom and How Can We Develop It Dr Patricia Alexander - The Development of Expertise: The Journey from Acclimation to Proficiency Dr Paul Zak - The Neuroscience of Narrative Transportation: Why Inspiring Stories Make Us React Dr Keith Oatley - Fiction: The Narrative Simulation of Social Worlds Dr Richard Nisbett - The Geography of Thought: How Asians and Westerners Think Differently Upgrade to Premium:

Modern technology amplifies our fear and emotions. FOMO is on the rise. Whether you are worried about being invited to a party, checking social media, or finding it harder to make decisions. FOMO is increasingly driving our emotions and actions. It is a deeply natural feeling built into us through hundreds of thousands of years of evolution. But it hasn't kept up with our incredible pace of technological change. Part of the reason we have such a decline in mental health is we can compare ourselves to the perfect lives all around us in the digital world and feel we don't stack up. This episode will help you understand what's really going on: The evolutionary roots of FOMO How our modern world is making us anxious Why ADHD is on the rise Where to take back our focus What to celebrate and look up to. Upgrade to Premium:

The small but very real problems that hold you back in a big way. Personal finances feel just that, personal. Yet most of our issues are fundamentally quite predictable and universal based on different mindset patterns and beliefs we pick up. Money isn't a completely natural tool; it is a human invention that helps us overcome trade and resource accumulation problems. Learning the basics of how to think about money and deal with it allows for us to become a master of our own future. From Lifestyle inflation to investing strategy or the issue of inaction feeling you have to learn more first This episode covers the 14 biggest mistakes we make when we think about money. Upgrade to Premium:

The Psychology of the 5 Types of Non-Player Characters - How to Fix Them and Be a Main Character Thinker. The same story plays out online every day. The same people are getting outraged about the same things again and again. Like Clockwork. The human brain is highly optimised to rely on heuristics and simplistic decisions. Modern media hijacks this system to control our beliefs and emotions based on the agenda of other people. This episode helps listeners build autonomy over their beliefs and emotions by learning the different types of Non-Player-Character: The Conformist NPC - Believes the consensus politically correct ideas The Contrarian NPC - Believes the opposite of the consensus and seeks conspiracy The Disciple NPC - Believes their preferred leader The Tribalist NPC - Follows the tribe and us vs them mentality The Averager NPC - Seeks the middle ground without understanding the merits of an argument. Learn the psychology of the processes behind each NPC type and how different types of critical thinking systems or defence systems get turned on and off based simply on who delivers the message. Building your own worldview is one of the most important things you can do in an increasingly confusing and polarised world. Sources: Gurwinder - Why You Are Probably An NPC People Shot to Death by US Police By Race FBI Crime Data USA National Suicide Data Journal Review: Health of Vaccinated vs Unvaccinated Children Vaccine Research Overview: The Vaccine Question Upgrade to Premium: