Podcasts about hidden brain

Beloved, In an age shaped by speed, endless distractions, and accelerating tech dominance, rising loneliness and disconnection have become defining conditions of life.

You've been calling it your personality. It's actually your biology and it's reversible.If you're a high-performing professional who still shows up every day but feels flat, emotionally shut down, or like you haven't felt like yourself in years  this podcast is for you. Dr. Dee Bonney, board-certified in emergency medicine with 25 years of ER experience, explains what emotional numbness actually is in the brain, how it develops in high performers, and what specifically reverses it.This isn't about mindset. It's about brain health.

Dr. Tony Ebel tackles one of the most commonly missed diagnoses in neurodevelopmental care: the brain-body disconnect hiding inside raging bull kids. While the drunken bull's struggles are visible and obvious, the raging bull's disorganization is buried beneath a flood of energy, motion, and output — which is exactly why pediatricians, therapists, and even chiropractors miss it. Dr. Tony breaks down the neurophysiology behind why these kids can sprint but can't skip, throw hard but can't catch, and talk constantly but struggle to articulate under pressure. He explains how subluxation at the brainstem level drives the gas pedal while shutting down the brake, and why stimulant medications, behavioral therapy, and even PT and OT will only go so far without first restoring the nervous system foundation. He closes with real hope for exhausted parents — showing how Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care doesn't just improve scans, it makes every other intervention work better too.-----Links & Resources:Mentioned in this episode:Episode 155: You Can't Work on the Brain Until You Work on the Body: The Missing Link Behind Speech, Behavior, and DevelopmentEpisode 32: Behavior Specialist Mom Shares What FINALLY Worked-----Key Topics & Timestamps01:45 Why the Brain-Body Disconnect Is Hidden in Raging Bulls 06:00 Dr. Tony's Personal Story as a Raging Bull Kid 08:00 Why Raging Bulls Thrive in Sports but Struggle in School 10:00 The INSiGHT Scans: Reading the Nervous System from the Inside 14:30 Raging Bull or Drunken Bull — The Answer Is Usually Both 17:00 What Whole Body Apraxia Actually Looks Like in a Raging Bull 24:00 What Subluxation Does at the Brainstem Level28:00 Why Medications Don't Fix the Root Cause 40:30 How Chiropractic Makes Every Other Therapy Work Better-- Follow us on Socials: Instagram: @pxdocsFacebook: Dr. Tony Ebel & The PX Docs NetworkYoutube: The PX DocsFor more information, visit PXDocs.com to read informative articles about the power of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care.Find a PX Doc Office near me: PX DOCS DirectoryTo watch Dr. Tony's 30 min Perfect Storm Webinar: Click Here

Most people think strength training is just about building muscle or losing weight. But new research is revealing something far more important.After 40, the right kind of exercise may actually help protect your brain, improve memory, and slow cognitive decline.In this episode of the Functional Longevity Podcast, Chris Borda breaks down the latest research on exercise and brain health, including findings from the University of California San Francisco on how movement impacts brain function at the cellular level, and research from Yale School of Public Health showing that many adults can continue improving physically and mentally as they age.You will learn:• How strength training supports brain health after 40• Why coordination and balance training matter more than most people realize• What many people get wrong about exercise and aging• How to structure workouts for long term cognitive and physical performanceThis episode is not about training harder. It is about training smarter so you can stay strong, sharp, and independent for years to come.#FunctionalLongevity #BrainHealth #StrengthTraining #HealthyAging #Over40Fitness #Longevity #CognitiveHealth #ExerciseForLife #FitnessAfter40 #AgingWell #MuscleAndMind #BrainFunction #StrengthForLife #ActiveAging #WorkoutSmart #HealthyLifestyle #BalanceTraining #MobilityTraining #ChrisBorda #YESFitness

How does the culture in which you live shape the life that you lead? We all know that culture affects the languages we speak and the foods we eat. But anthropologist Joseph Henrich says the impact of culture goes even further, reaching into our bodies and our minds. He takes us on a journey through time to show how human cultures create a "collective brain," and how that shared knowledge profoundly shapes who we are and how we live.   Hidden Brain is headed back on the road this summer, for the latest leg of our Perceptions tour! Join Shankar as he shares key psychological insights from the first decade of the show. More information on tour stops and tickets can be found at our tour page.  Episode illustration by Esma Melike Sezer for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

50% of the world is projected to be myopic by 2050. But what if worsening eyesight is only part of the story?  In this episode of Uncover Your Eyes, Dr. Meenal Agarwal explains why rising screen time, reduced outdoor exposure, and chronic near-work may be affecting far more than vision — potentially reshaping how the developing brain processes space, movement, attention, emotional regulation, and social connection. Dr. Agarwal introduces the concept of Spatial Awareness Processing Disorder (SAPD), a proposed neurovisual pattern she is increasingly observing in children and adults living in highly screen-based environments. In this episode, you'll uncover:

Some people are good at putting themselves in another person's shoes. Others may struggle to relate. But psychologist Jamil Zaki argues that empathy isn't a fixed trait. This week, we revisit a favorite episode about how to exercise our empathy muscles. Then, Leslie John answers listener questions about the benefits of opening up to others, in our latest installment of Your Questions Answered. Hidden Brain is now on YouTube! Check out our channel and subscribe so you don't miss any of our videos: https://www.youtube.com/@HiddenBrain Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer sits down with behavioral scientist and author Leidy Klotz to explore how your environment shapes your mindset, relationships, and ability to perform at your best. Drawing from his new book, In a Good Place, Leidy shares how the spaces we live and work in can either support or limit our growth, connection, and sense of purpose—often in ways we don't consciously recognize. Kristel and Leidy dive into how small shifts in your surroundings can create meaningful changes in your habits, confidence, and overall well-being. They also explore how your perspective and choices within different environments can influence how you show up in your work and life. If you're looking to elevate your energy, strengthen your relationships, and create conditions that support sustainable high performance, this conversation offers a powerful new lens. Key Takeaways: How your physical environment influences your mindset and behavior Why certain spaces spark connection—and others shut it down How navigating new environments can enhance learning and growth Ways to adjust your surroundings to support confidence and clarity The connection between space, perspective, and long-term success ABOUT LEIDY KLOTZ Leidy Klotz is a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia who studies how and why humans design. He has written for the Washington Post, Fast Company, Scientific American, and Harvard Business Review; has published his work in top journals like Nature and Science; and has been interviewed on Hidden Brain, Freakonomics, Mindscape, and The Atlantic's How to Build a Happy Life. Klotz has advised clients ranging from the Departments of Energy and Homeland Security to CapitalOne and Amazon. Connect with Leidy   Website: https://leidyklotz.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leidyklotz/  Order Leidy's Book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/leidy-klotz-phd/in-a-good-place/9780316567367/  About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer: Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the award-winning author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to "Live Greatly" while promoting leadership development and team building. Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel's work has been featured in Forbes and she has had multiple TV appearances including NBC News Daily, ABC News Live, FOX Weather, ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago and more. Kristel lives in the Chicago, IL area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here. Website: www.livegreatly.co  Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co  LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions.  Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations.  They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.  Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests.  Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content.  Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.

Leidy Klotzis a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia who studies how and why humans design. He has written for the Washington Post, Fast Company, Scientific American, and Harvard Business Review; has published his work in top journals like Nature and Science; and has been interviewed on Hidden Brain, Freakonomics, Mindscape, and The Atlantic's How to Build a Happy Life. Klotz has advised clients ranging from the Departments of Energy and Homeland Security to CapitalOne and Amazon.

This month, WNYC welcomed Hidden Brain, a show dedicated to reporting on human behavior and social science research, to its weekend programming. Shankar Vedantam, Hidden Brain host and executive editor, introduces himself to WNYC listeners, and focuses on two recent episodes of the show on the psychology of telling lies and keeping secrets. And listeners share their biggest lie or secret. Image courtesy of Hidden Brain

What's the difference between being loved and feeling loved? Psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky joins us to discuss the distinction, and how we can create a stronger feeling of closeness in our relationships. Then, in our latest installment of Your Questions Answered, psychologist Greg Walton returns to answer listeners' questions about negative thought spirals.As individuals and as a society, we often overlook a strategy that can help us to improve our lives. We discuss this tool in a new video on Hidden Brain's YouTube channel. Please check it out, and let us know what you think! Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leidy Klotz shares simple shifts for creating more spaces that improve well-being. — YOU'LL LEARN — 1) The three core needs that well-designed spaces meet 2) How to feel in control of spaces you can't control3) How to harness the “home turf” advantage anywhereSubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1147 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT LEIDY — Leidy Klotz is a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia who studies how and why humans design. He has written for the Washington Post, Fast Company, Scientific American, and Harvard Business Review; has published his work in top journals like Nature and Science; and has been interviewed on Hidden Brain, Freakonomics, Mindscape, and The Atlantic's How to Build a Happy Life. Klotz has advised clients ranging from the Departments of Energy and Homeland Security to CapitalOne and Amazon.• Book: In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive• Website: LeidyKlotz.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Study: “Location in negotiation: Is there a home field advantage?” by Graham Brown and Marcus Baer• Book: Shatterproof: How to Thrive in a World of Constant Chaos (And Why Resilience Alone Isn't Enough) by Tasha Eurich• Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo• Book: The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heat and Dan Heath• Past episode: 317: How to Form Habits the Smart Way with BJ Fogg, PhD• Past episode: 684: Achieving More by Tapping into the Science of Less with Leidy Klotz• Past episode: 1066: How to Thrive When Your Resilience Runs Out with Dr. Tasha Eurich— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Narwhal. Treat your home to spotless, fresh floors with us.narwhal.com/pete.• Monarch.com. Get 50% off your first year on with the code AWESOME.• Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll with gusto.com/AWESOME• Shopify. Sign up for your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/better• Vanguard. Give your clients consistent results year in and year out with vanguard.com/AUDIOSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does power truly flow from the barrel of a gun? Pop culture and conventional history often teach us that violence is the most effective way to produce change. But is that common assumption actually true? Political scientist Erica Chenoweth, who has studied more than 100 years of revolutions and insurrections, says the answer is counterintuitive. Then, Ranjay Gulati answers listener questions on how to cultivate courage. Hidden Brain is now on YouTube! Check out our first three videos, which explore how to cope in high-pressure situations, the secret behind artistic masterpieces, and an unexpected driver of bravery in our everyday lives.  Illustration by Kuliation for Unsplash+. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Dr. Martin in today's episode of The Doctor Is In Podcast.  

Join Dr. Martin in today's episode of The Doctor Is In Podcast.  

We like to think that good financial decisions come down to discipline and basic math. But the psychology of money turns out to be deeply complicated. Researcher John Dinsmore explains the hidden mental biases that shape how we think about spending, borrowing, and the future. We explore how these forces can steer us toward costly mistakes — and how to guard against them. Then, on Your Questions Answered, researcher Bobby Parmar returns to consider the upsides of embracing uncertainty. We're excited to share that Hidden Brain is coming to YouTube! Check out our trailer and subscribe so you don't miss our first three episodes, coming April 10.  Episode art by Andania Humaira for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mari Granstrom, founder and “chief executive activist” of Origin By Ocean, joins the Grow Everything podcast to explain how massive seaweed blooms, driven by nutrient pollution and eutrophication, can become a regenerative feedstock for bio-based and biodegradable chemicals. Mari shares how a career in industrial biochemistry, plus years of scuba diving and growing up near the polluted Baltic Sea, shaped their mission to transform invasive sargassum into high-performance ingredients that can replace many oil-derived inputs in everyday products. The conversation covers the scale of the sargassum problem across the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, how Origin By Ocean processes seaweed into “white powders” customers can use in cosmetics and nutraceuticals, and why the future of climate entrepreneurship needs diversity, integrity, and business models that restore ecosystems instead of extracting from them.Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.messaginglab.com/groweverything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Chapters:(00:00:00) Seaweed is the oil we never used(00:01:00) Karl's Hidden Brain live show story + talking to strangers(00:03:00) Spring break travel + staying plugged into biotech(00:04:05) Pfizer Oscars ad: what “breakthrough” messaging gets right(00:08:15) Echo Biotech + NYC's biotech network, from biomaterials to investing(00:11:10) Meet Mari Granstrom and Origin By Ocean (how they met at Climate Week)(00:14:00) Mari's path: biochemical expertise inside big chemical companies(00:16:25) Eutrophication 101 + spotting seaweed blooms as future biomass(00:19:20) The sargassum crisis: 40–60M tons/year in the Caribbean + Gulf(00:21:00) Is this just a Gulf issue? Baltic Sea vs “real oceans”(00:23:00) Turning research into a real biorefinery business(00:25:00) “Chief executive activist”: science, entrepreneurship, advocacy as one role(00:28:05) How seaweed can replace oil-derived functionality in everyday products(00:30:10) Regenerative value chains vs ESG (doing less harm vs net-positive)(00:33:00) Why diversity (backgrounds, not just demographics) drives better solutions(00:34:00) Future-casting: where marine biomass will (and won't) make sense(00:37:00) Quickfire: ocean's passive-aggressive text, algae blooms, nudibranchs(00:40:00) Demo products: cosmetics, hair growth, makeup + showing customers potential(00:41:00) Wrap-up reflections (seaweed as feedstock, alternate history)Links and Resources:Mari Granstorm episode linksSynBioBeta Pass - Discount code: Grow Everything Topics Covered:fermentation, biomanufacturing, yeast, Lallemand, enzymes, biofuels, xylose, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, genomics, synthetic biologyHave a question or comment? Message us here:Text or Call (804) 505-5553⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow Everything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music by: Nihilore Production by: Amplafy Media

Should you tell a harsh truth if it will only cause pain? Or is it sometimes kinder to keep someone in the dark? Psychologist Emma Levine explores the unwritten rules that guide when people feel it's acceptable to lie — and what those choices reveal about trust, harm, and our deepest moral values. In our companion Hidden Brain+ episode, we explore ways to bridge the gap between the many lies we condone in practice, and the lying we claim to hate. If you're a subscriber, that episode is called “Telling The Truth About Lies.” If you're not yet a Hidden Brain+ subscriber, please visit support.hiddenbrain.org or apple.co/hidden brain for a free seven-day trial.  Illustration by Masantocreative for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do the groups you identify with shape your sense of self? Do they influence the beer you buy? The way you vote? In this favorite episode from 2021, psychologist Jay Van Bavel explains how our group loyalties affect us more than we realize, and can even shape our basic senses of sight, taste and smell. Then, look out! There's a g-g-g-ghost! Psychologist Coltan Scrivner answers listener questions about the surprising benefits of scary entertainment. New Yorkers, there's still time to join us for Hidden Brain's live show on March 25! Click here for more info and tickets. And listeners elsewhere, stay tuned for an announcement about more tour dates later this year. You can be among the first to hear about upcoming shows and other Hidden Brain projects by signing up for our newsletter at news.hiddenbrain.org.   Episode illustration by Eva Wahyuni for Unsplash+.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Practical strategies for navigating difficult relationships and building new connections.   Shankar Vedantam is host of the Hidden Brain podcast and radio show, where he explores the hidden patterns that drive human behavior. He is the author of the books, The Hidden Brain: How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Wage Wars, Control Markets and Save Our Lives, and Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self- Deceiving Brain.   In this episode we talk about: How to stop trying to change your partner Useful tools for overcoming conflict The challenging practice of "eating the blame"  The concept of "useful delusions" How to manage a breakup (of any kind) The real secret to finding closure The value of micro interactions with strangers And more   Related Episodes: The Surprising Upsides of Self-Deception   Get the 10% with Dan Harris app here Sign up for Dan's free newsletter here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel   Additional Resources:  Shankar's TED Talks Hidden Brain Live Tour Join Dan and Emmy Award-winning journalist Allison Gilbert at 92NY on May 17th for a live conversation about how mindfulness can deepen connection and combat loneliness, available in person and via streaming. Register here. Join Dan, Sebene Selassie and Jeff Warren for Meditation Party, a 3-day immersive retreat at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY, October 16–18, 2026. Register here. To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris    

Why One Cookie Turns Into a Binge | Emotional Eating & Weight Loss PsychologyEmotional eating and binge eating often start with one small slip. In this episode, Kylie Pax explains the psychology behind why one cookie can turn into a full binge and how women struggling with weight loss can break the cycle.Have you ever eaten one extra cookie and thought:“Well… I already blew it.”And suddenly the entire day of eating spirals out of control?You're not weak. You're not lacking discipline.You're experiencing a powerful psychological pattern called the “what-the-hell effect.”In this episode, Kylie breaks down the hidden brain mechanism that causes emotional eaters to go from one small slip to a full binge.You'll learn why one tiny mistake can make restraint disappear, why emotional eaters are especially vulnerable to this cycle, and how to interrupt the spiral before it takes over your day.If you've ever struggled with all-or-nothing thinking around food, this episode will completely change how you respond to those moments.Because the most dangerous moment in weight loss isn't when you eat the cookie.It's the story you tell yourself after the cookie.And once you understand that story, you can take your power back.In This Episode• The psychological trap that turns one cookie into a binge• What the “what-the-hell effect” is and why it happens• Why emotional eaters spiral faster than other people• The hidden danger of all-or-nothing thinking• How guilt and disappointment trigger more eating• The powerful Reset Rule that stops the binge cycle • How to take control of your next decision after a mistakeBOMBSHELL BLUEPRINT WEIGHT LOSS FOR EMOTIONAL EATERS

Disgust is a strong emotion, one designed by evolution to protect us from danger and diseases. But disgust also spills into other areas of our lives, influencing our morals, our intuitions about right and wrong, even our politics. We talk with psychologist David Pizarro about how disgust is used to persuade and divide us, and why it remains such a potent force in public life today. Then, in our latest installment of “Your Questions Answered,” Huggy Rao returns to respond to listeners' thoughts and questions about why big ideas fail. There's still time to join Shankar at one of our upcoming stops on Hidden Brain's live tour! Join us in Philadelphia on March 21 or New York City on March 25. And stay tuned for more tour dates to be announced soon!  Illustration by Alvaro Montoro for Unsplash Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Charismatic leaders can inspire devotion and give people a powerful sense of meaning. They can also make us vulnerable. This week, we explore how figures across history have gained followers by offering clarity in moments of uncertainty — and why that clarity can come at a cost. Historian Molly Worthen explains how to recognize the spell of charisma, and why questioning it is essential to a healthy society. Then, on Your Questions Answered, Antonio Pascual-Leone returns to respond to listeners' thoughts and questions about moving on after a breakup. Do you have personal stories about being drawn in by a charismatic leader? A question about how we can be swept up in the spell of a mesmerizing person? If you'd be willing to share your question or story with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone. Then, email the file to us at feedback@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “charisma.” Thanks!  Our next stops on Hidden Brain's live tour are coming up in just a few weeks! Join Shankar in Philadelphia on March 21 or in New York City on March 25. More info and tickets are at hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Imhaf Maulana for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Dr. Martin in today's episode of The Doctor Is In Podcast.  

What does it do to a person to feel overlooked? This week, psychologist Gordon Flett examines how the absence of “mattering” can fuel loneliness, depression, and even violence. He outlines how feeling valued serves as a psychological buffer, and how simple gestures can rebuild a sense of meaning in ourselves and others. Then, in the second half of the show, listeners share their thoughts on finding healing in nature. Psychologist Marc Berman returns for the latest installment of our series "Your Questions Answered."  Today's episode touches on topics related to loneliness, depression, and suicide. If you or someone you love is struggling, there are people who can help. If you're in the U.S., call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. If you're outside the U.S., this site can help you find mental health resources in your country. Our next stops on Hidden Brain's live tour are just weeks away! Join Shankar for an evening of science and storytelling in Philadelphia on March 21 or New York City on March 25. He'll be sharing seven key psychological insights from his first decade hosting the show. And stayed tuned for more tour stops to be announced later this spring! Episode illustration by Martino Pietropoli for Unsplash+. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Unstress Health, Dr Ron Ehrlich speaks with former Team USA bobsledder William Person about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition traditionally diagnosed only after death. William shares his personal battle with debilitating symptoms that were misdiagnosed for decades - including depression, confusion, memory loss, and suicidal ideation - and reveals how hyperbaric oxygen therapy changed his life. The discussion expands beyond elite sport to include: Military veterans Domestic violence survivors Car accident victims Prison populations Misdiagnosed psychiatric patients This episode explores the uncomfortable possibility that many cases labeled as mental illness may instead be untreated brain trauma. ◉

From the time we're schoolchildren, we're ranked and sorted based on how smart we are. But what if our assumptions about intelligence limit our potential? This week, we revisit a favorite 2022 conversation with cognitive scientist Scott Barry Kaufman, who proposes a more expansive notion of what it means to be "smart." Then, in the latest installment of Your Questions Answered, psychologist James Cordova answers listener questions on accepting our romantic partners as they are.Our next stops on Hidden Brain's live tour are just weeks away! Join Shankar for an evening of science and storytelling in Philadelphia on March 21 or New York City on March 25. He'll be sharing seven key psychological insights from his first decade hosting the show. And stayed tuned for more tour stops to be announced later this spring!If you missed our original series with James Cordova, listen to How to Fix Your Marriage, Part 1 and How to Fix Your Marriage, Part 2. Episode illustration by ghariza mahavira for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Last week, we talked with psychologist Leslie John about the costs of keeping secrets. Today, Leslie returns with a look at the psychological power of self-disclosure. She says the moments of oversharing that we often consider "TMI" can actually strengthen our relationships. Then, in the second half of the show, listeners share their thoughts and questions about the expectations we put on modern marriages. Psychologist Eli Finkel returns for the latest installment of our series "Your Questions Answered." Our next stops on Hidden Brain's live tour are just weeks away! Join Shankar for an evening of science and storytelling in Philadelphia on March 21 or New York City on March 25. He'll be sharing seven key psychological insights from his first decade hosting the show. And stayed tuned for more tour stops to be announced later this spring!If you missed our original conversation with Eli Finkel, you can find it here. And here's where you can check out his podcast, "Love Factually."Episode illustration by Bekeen Co. for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We all carry secrets, from harmless omissions to life-changing truths. But secrecy isn't neutral: hiding takes mental work and can harm our health and relationships. In this week's show, and in our episode next week, psychologist Leslie John explores the costs of concealment — and how opening up can give us more mental space and deepen our connections.After you listen to today's episode, check out our Hidden Brain+ conversation called "When to Hide the Truth." In that episode, we talk with Leslie about when and where it may be best to withhold information. If you're not yet a Hidden Brain+ subscriber, you can hear that episode with a free seven-day trial -- just go to support.hiddenbrain.org or apple.co/hiddenbrain. Thanks for listening! Our next stops on Hidden Brain's live tour are coming soon! Join Shankar in Philadelphia on March 21 or New York City on March 25. More info and tickets are at hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Dadi Prayoga for Unsplash+.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grace and Alvina talk about the importance of discomfort, using two Hidden Brain podcast episodes plus Adam Grant's book Hidden Potential as jumping-off points. They discuss times in the past where they've embraced discomfort and have grown from the experience, including public speaking and Karaoke! For the Fortune Cookie segment, they make some resolutions for the podcast, including producing a gift for patrons (finally) and having another happy hour! And they end as always with what they're grateful for. Click here to become a Patreon member: https://www.patreon.com/Bookfriendsforever1.  See info about Grace's new book "The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon": https://linktr.ee/gracelinauthor.  Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bookfriendsforever_podcast  Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookfriendsforever_podcast/ https://shop.carlemuseum.org/product/ling-tings-lunar-new-year-two-times-lucky-hardcover

Dr. Maya Shankar, cognitive scientist, creator, executive producer, and host of the podcast A Slight Change of Plans, and author of The Other Side of Change, joins me on this episode. Maya was a Senior Advisor in the Obama White House, where she founded and served as Chair of the White House Behavioral Science Team. She also served as the first Behavioral Science Advisor to the United Nations under Ban Ki-moon, and as a core member of Pete Buttigieg's debate preparation team during his 2020 presidential run. Maya has a postdoctoral fellowship in cognitive neuroscience from Stanford, a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, and a B.A. from Yale. She's been profiled by The New Yorker and has been the featured guest on NPR's All Things Considered, Freakonomics, and Hidden Brain. She's a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music's pre-college program, where she was a private violin student of Itzhak Perlman.

There are times in life when the challenges we face feel insurmountable. Authors succumb to writer's block. Athletes and artists hit a plateau. People of a certain age fall into a midlife crisis. These are all different ways of saying: I'm stuck. This week, in a favorite conversation from 2023, psychologist Adam Alter shares his research on why we all get stuck at various points in our lives, and how to break free. Then, psychologist George Bonanno answers your questions about trauma and resilience.In this episode, you'll learn:*Why the beginning and the end of a project is often more manageable than the midway point.*Techniques that can help you to get through the "plateau" phase of a project or goal. *How to break down daunting endeavors into smaller, more manageable pieces.*Why perfectionism is so destructive to creativity, and how we can avoid this mental trap.*Why it's difficult for us to see other people's "stuckness." *The relationship between being prolific and being successful. Hidden Brain is heading back out on the road in 2026! We're coming next to Philadelphia and New York City, with more tour dates across the country to be announced later this spring. More info and tickets at hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I experience our culture growing more and more fearful of unexpected and undesired change. If you were to look back on your life and make a list of all the unexpected and undesired changes you have experienced in your life, I bet it's fairly long. I would ask you to consider why you think many more unexpected and undesired changes aren't ahead of you. But what I see is that when you have anxiety about the possible, and I'd say probable changes ahead of you, you are taking away from your ability to have joy and fulfillment today. I find myself looking at two perspectives. One, none of the unexpected and undesired changes in my past have killed me. They haven't ruined me. And two, I amaze myself to think of how many of those unexpected and undesired changes actually turned out to be great, great gifts to my life. To unpack the psychology around change, in this episode I have Maya Shankar back on the podcast. I first had Maya on for the launch of her podcast, A Slight Change of Plans, which Apple awarded as the Best Show of the Year 2021. After four years of the podcast, Maya has now culminated her findings and experience in a book, The Other Side Of Change: Who We Become When Life Makes Other Plans. Maya says, "I've written this for anyone who is currently in the choppy waters of  a change, is trying to make sense of a past change, or is anxious about  a future change." Maya is a cognitive scientist and was a Senior Advisor in the Obama White House, where she founded and served as Chair of the White House Behavioral Science Team. She also served as the first Behavioral Science Advisor to the United Nations. Maya has a postdoctoral fellowship in cognitive neuroscience from Stanford, a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, and a B.A. from Yale. She's been profiled by The New Yorker and been the featured guest on NPR's All Things Considered, Freakonomics, and Hidden Brain. All that to say, she knows the psychology behind change and is here to help us, help ourselves. Sign up for your $1/month trial period at shopify.com/kevin Go to shipstation.com and use code KEVIN to start your free trial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maya Shankar is a cognitive scientist and the creator, executive producer, and host of the podcast, A Slight Change of Plans, which Apple awarded as the Best Show of the Year in 2021. Maya was a Senior Advisor in the Obama White House, where she founded and served as Chair of the White House Behavioral Science Team. She also served as the first Behavioral Science Advisor to the United Nations, and as a core member of Pete Buttigieg's debate preparation team during his 2020 presidential run. Maya has a postdoctoral fellowship in cognitive neuroscience from Stanford, a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, and a B.A. from Yale. She's been profiled by The New Yorker and been the featured guest on NPR's All Things Considered, Freakonomics, and Hidden Brain. She's also a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music's pre-college program. And most recently, Maya is the author of the book, The Other Side of Change. In this episode we discuss the following: I loved Maya's insight about identity. When she injured her finger and could no longer play the violin, she was devastated because she identified as a violinist. But when she looked more broadly at the motivations that drove her, she realized that connection, growth, care, and contribution were underlying motivations. And violin wasn't the only way to accomplish her ultimate goals. By anchoring our identity to deeper motivations rather than specific roles or activities, we create a more resilient sense of self while also creating more opportunities for us to achieve our goals.

Why do some people act bravely in a crisis, while others flee or freeze up? Today, we bring you the second part of our You 2.0 series on the mental obstacles that can block us when we're charting a new path. Behavioral scientist Ranjay Gulati argues that courage is a choice, and that we can strengthen the reflexes that will help us to be brave when it matters most. Once you've listened to this episode, be sure to check out our companion conversation about how you can help the people around you to become more brave. You can hear that episode with a free seven-day trial to Hidden Brain+. To sign up, go to support.hiddenbrain.org or apple.co/hiddenbrain. Your subscription helps to cover the research, writing, and audio production that go into every episode of Hidden Brain, and we appreciate your support!Episode illustration by Eva Wahyuni for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The start of a new year is a natural moment to set goals for ourselves. But doing so can also be a little daunting. Today, we kick off a series designed to help you understand and grapple with the mental obstacles that can keep you from charting a new path. We talk with psychologist Greg Walton, who studies how our minds get trapped in negative thought spirals — and how we can begin to break free. Then, in the latest installment of our segment "Your Questions Answered," psychologist and neuroscientist Abigail Marsh answers listener questions about the minds of extremely kind and generous people.If you enjoyed our conversation with Greg Walton, don't miss our companion conversation about the emotional tools we can use to help someone who's spiraling. You can listen to that episode with a free seven-day trial to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+. To sign up, go to support.hiddenbrain.org. Or if you're using an Apple device, you can go to apple.co/hiddenbrain. Thanks, and Happy New Year!Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 Many of us rush through our days, weeks, and lives, chasing goals and just trying to get everything done. But that can blind us to a very simple source of joy that's all around us. This week, we revisit a favorite conversation with psychologist Dacher Keltner, who describes what happens when we stop to savor nature, art, or simply the moral courage of those around us. Then, in our segment "Your Questions Answered," Mary Helen Immordino-Yang returns to answer listeners' questions about learning and how to keep students engaged in school. Looking for a last-minute holiday gift for the Hidden Brain fan in your life? How about a membership to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+? You can learn more about gift subscriptions at patreon.com/hiddenbrain/gift. And if you prefer to give the gift of an experience, consider tickets to our live tour! To see where we're headed in 2026, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Episode illustration by HandRush Supply for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, we bring you the second part of our 2023 conversation on the perils of too much pleasure. Psychiatrist Anna Lembke explains the neuroscience behind compulsive consumption. She also shares techniques she's learned from her patients to overcome the lure of addictive substances and behaviors. Then, Anna responds to your questions and comments on everything from dopamine fasts to kids' use of cell phones in our segment "Your Questions Answered."If you missed the first part of this episode, listen to it here.Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the Hidden Brain fan in your life? How about a membership to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+? You can learn more about gift subscriptions at patreon.com/hiddenbrain/gift. If t-shirts, tote bags and mugs are more your thing, you can find all kinds of Hidden Brain swag at our online store -- just go to shop.hiddenbrain.org. And if you prefer to give the gift of an experience, consider tickets to our live tour! To see where we're headed in 2026, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Episode illustration by Anna Kutukova for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

All of us think we know what addiction looks like. It's the compulsive consumption of drugs, alcohol, or nicotine. But psychiatrist Anna Lembke argues that our conception of addiction is far too narrow — and that a broader understanding of addiction might help us to understand why so many people are anxious and depressed. This week, we revisit a 2023 episode that remains of the most popular in the history of our show. We'll explore how and why humans are wired to pursue pleasure, and all the ways the modern world tempts us with addictive substances and behaviors.Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the Hidden Brain fan in your life? How about a membership to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+? You can learn more about gift subscriptions at patreon.com/hiddenbrain/gift. If t-shirts, tote bags and mugs are more your thing, you can find all kinds of Hidden Brain swag at our online store -- just go to shop.hiddenbrain.org. And if you prefer to give the gift of an experience, consider tickets to our live tour! To see where we're headed in 2026, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Episode image by adriandra karuniawan for Unsplash+  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why are so many of us drawn to horror, gore, and true crime? Why do we crane our necks to see the scene of a crash on the highway? Psychologist Coltan Scrivner says that our natural morbid curiosity serves a purpose. We talk with Coltan about our fascination with tales of murder and mayhem, and what this tendency reveals about our minds.In this episode, you'll learn:*Why there's often a surge of interest in scary entertainment after a violent or tragic incident in the real world. *The potential evolutionary roots of our curiosity about scary events or violent stories.*What researchers have found about the impact of scary movies and books on the people who watch them. *How horror content can be a vehicle for connecting with other people. *What we know about the personality traits of people who are drawn to dark and sinister stories. If you have a question or personal story related to today's episode that you'd be willing to share with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line "scary."  Looking for the perfect holiday present for the Hidden Brain fan in your life? We've got you covered. Give your loved one a gift membership to Hidden Brain+, or visit our online shop for t-shirts, mugs, totes, and more! Here's another idea: grab tickets for one of our upcoming live shows. We'll be in Philadelphia on March 21 and New York on March 25. Thanks and Happy Holidays!This December, Hidden Brain is proud to join #PodsFightPoverty. We're teaming up with other podcasts to raise funds to lift three villages in Rwanda out of extreme poverty. Your donation goes directly to the families who know best what they need. Visit GiveDirectly.org/HiddenBrain to make a difference for someone who needs it most. Episode image by Riswan Ratta for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What should you do with your life? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. But there are techniques that can help you to feel more in harmony with yourself and the world. The Hidden Brain podcast explored some of those methods in a recent conversation with researcher Victor Strecher. If you're feeling adrift, alone, or burned out, this episode is for you. Listen to Hidden Brain's full conversation on finding your purpose by visiting https://link.podtrac.com/yourlife.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We've known intuitively for centuries that spending time in nature can give us a boost. But it's only recently that scientists have begun to identify exactly what it is about the outdoors that has such a powerful effect on our mood and our minds. This week, psychologist Marc Berman explores how spending time in nature can actually undo some of the harmful effects of our modern lives.Do you have follow-up questions, comments, or stories about nature's effect on the mind after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing your thoughts with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line nature. Thanks!  Illustration by Swati B on Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It can be frustrating when people do things we don't want them to do. A friend cancels plans at the last minute. A child refuses to get dressed for school. Before long, our resentment builds, and we're tempted to issue more rules, reminders, and consequences. But the techniques we use to get people to alter their behavior are often strikingly ineffective. This week, psychologist Stuart Ablon explains why these methods fail, and offers better ways to help the people we care about make lasting change..If you love Hidden Brain, join us for an upcoming live show! We'll be in Los Angeles on November 22, and more dates in 2026 are coming soon. For tickets and more info, go to hiddenbrain.tour.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For many of us, navigating the conclusion of a relationship is one of the hardest things we'll ever do. This week, we conclude our Love 2.0 series with psychologist Antonio Pascual-Leone, who shares the most common mistakes we make when it comes to splitting up, and techniques that can help us ease the pain. Then, our latest edition of Your Questions Answered. Cognitive scientist Phil Fernbach returns to respond to listeners' thoughts and questions about the "illusion of knowledge." Do you have questions for Antonio Pascual-Leone about breakups? Are there losses that have left you feeling stuck? Have you discovered techniques to move on when a relationship ends? If you'd be willing to share your question or comment with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Two or three minutes is plenty. Use the subject line "breakups." Thanks!Image by Yana Kravchuk for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No one will deny that marriage is hard. In fact, there's evidence it's getting even harder. This week on the show, we revisit a favorite episode about the history of marriage and how it has evolved over time. We talk with historian Stephanie Coontz and psychologist Eli Finkel, and explore ways we can improve our love lives — including by asking less of our partners. Then, on Your Questions Answered, psychologist Jonathan Adler answers your questions about the science of storytelling.If you have follow-up questions or thoughts about these ideas, and you'd be willing to share them with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone. Then, email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “marriage.” That email address again is ideas@hiddenbrain.org.The Hidden Brain tour is continuing, with our next stop just a few weeks away! Join us in Los Angeles on November 22, and stay tuned for more dates coming in 2026. For more info and tickets, head to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When things go wrong in our relationships, we often try to change the way our partners behave. But usually, trying to fix a person only makes things worse. Last week, we talked to psychologist James Cordova about why this tendency can be so damaging, and what to do instead. This week, we explore another difficult but effective way to strengthen our relationships. Then, on Your Questions Answered, we bring back researcher Victor Strecher, who studies purpose. Vic spoke with us in June about the death of his daughter, and how it changed his own outlook on purpose. That conversation, which was called "You 2.0: What Is Your Life For?" had a powerful impact on many listeners. We'll hear Vic's responses to their thoughts and questions. What have you learned about changing your partner in the course of your relationship? Have you come up with ways to accept your partner's flaws? If you have questions or comments for James Cordova, and you'd be willing to share with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a short voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line "acceptance." Thanks! The Hidden Brain tour is continuing, with our next stops just a few days away! Join us in Baltimore on October 11 or Washington, D.C. on October 12 to see Shankar live on stage. We'll also be in Los Angeles on November 22, and more dates in 2026 are coming soon. For more info and tickets, head to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Paris Bilal for Unsplash+.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Many love stories end when the characters are still in the heady, euphoric early stages of a relationship. But what comes after that intoxicating first phase of love is over? Today, we kick off a new series on the challenges specific to long-term relationships. We'll talk with psychologist James Cordova about some of the common difficulties many couples face. We'll also look at a solution that scientific research suggests might actually work. Then, we'll bring you the latest installment of our segment Your Questions Answered. Researcher Jon Jachimowicz returns to respond to listeners' thoughts about the pursuit of passions. If you'd like to see Hidden Brain live and hear some of Shankar's key takeaways from the first decade of the show, we have stops coming up on our tour! We'll be in Baltimore on October 11th, Washington, D.C. on October 12th, and Los Angeles on November 22nd. Plus, we'll have more stops for 2026 to announce soon. For more info and tickets, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour.And if you enjoyed today's episode with James Cordova, check out our Hidden Brain+ conversation with him about relationship check-ups. James explains why an annual relationship assessment can help couples to spot issues before they become major problems. Plus, he shares some of the questions he asks couples during these sessions. If you're not yet a Hidden Brain+ subscriber, Apple Podcasts is offering an extended 30-day free trial for all listeners who give it a try in the month of September. To claim your free trial, find Hidden Brain in the Apple Podcasts app and click the "Try Free" button, or go to apple.co/hiddenbrain. This week's episode art is by Chloe for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The idea of being driven by a calling goes back centuries. It was the language used to describe religious people who were called to the priesthood. Today, millions of people in secular professions yearn to be similarly galvanized by their work. This week, researcher Jennifer Tosti-Kharas explores the immense power — and the downsides — of finding a job that gives you purpose.Do you have follow-up questions or stories that you'd like to share with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas? Have you found a calling that gets you up in the morning each day? Are you a skeptic of callings, or do you have questions about how to make your work more meaningful? If you'd be willing to share your questions, stories and comments with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “calling.”If you love Hidden Brain, please consider joining our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+. All through the month of September, listeners who subscribe to Hidden Brain+ on Apple Podcasts will have access to an extended 30-day free trial. To access that trial, find Hidden Brain on Apple Podcasts and click the “Try Free” button. Or go to apple.co/hiddenbrain. And there are still tickets available for our upcoming live shows! We'll be in Baltimore on October 11, Washington, D.C. on October 12, and Los Angeles on November 22. More info and tickets are at hiddenbrain.org/tour.Episode illustration by Evelina Mitev for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's not easy for most of us to receive negative feedback. Even when the person delivering that feedback is constructive and reasonable, we often feel the urge to defend ourselves. This week, we look at the psychology of defensiveness with neuroscientist Emily Falk. We'll explore what causes so many of us to resist constructive criticism, and how we can get better at giving and receiving such feedback. Then, in the latest installment of our ongoing series "Your Questions Answered," psychologist Ciara Greene returns to the show to answer your questions about memory and forgetfulness.If you have follow-up questions or thoughts for Emily Falk after listening to today's conversation, and you'd be willing to share with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “mental barriers.” Thanks! Our next stops on the Hidden Brain tour are coming up! Join us in Baltimore on October 11, Washington, D.C. on October 12, or Los Angeles on November 22. And stay tuned for more cities to be added for 2026. For more info and tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour. Episode illustration by Getty Images for Unsplash+ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Many of us have been raised to believe that if we want to get something done, we just need to set our minds to it. Where there's a will, there's a way, right? Yet somehow we end up polishing off that pint of ice cream in the freezer, or spending more than our budget allows. It's almost as if we're not the ones in charge. This week, we talk with psychologist and neuroscientist Emily Falk about why our minds often conspire against our best interests, and how we can regain control. Do you have follow-up questions or thoughts for Emily Falk after listening to today's conversation? If you'd be willing to share with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “mental barriers.” Thanks!And if you love Hidden Brain, please consider joining our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+. We're currently offering an extended 30-day free trial for all listeners who subscribe on Apple Podcasts during the month of September. To sign up, click the "Subscribe" or "Try Free" button in Apple Podcasts, or go to apple.co/hiddenbrain. Your subscription helps to fund the research, writing, and sound design that go into every episode of the show. We appreciate your support! Episode illustration by Fast Ink on Unsplash