Podcasts about hidden brain

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.

Judd Kessler is a Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. A leading scholar of market design, he was named one of Forbes' 30 Under 30 for his groundbreaking work on organ allocation and received the Vernon L. Smith Ascending Scholar Prize for his pioneering research. His insights have been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and on Hidden Brain and Freakonomics. With degrees from Harvard and Cambridge, Judd studies the hidden markets that shape our lives and how we can navigate them more effectively. He is also the author of the book, Lucky be Design. In this episode we discuss the following: The most common way to allocate scarce resources is through pricing. But other mechanisms exist: hidden markets. And by staying alert for these hidden markets, we can increase our luck. One of the most common hidden markets is the race: first come, first serve. In Judd's case, when he realized that demand was going to outstrip supply for his child's after school program, he recognized he was in a race, so he made sure to sign up right when registration opened. And he increased his luck. The lottery is another hidden market. If four friends wanted to attend Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, they increase their luck by each entering the lottery for four tickets each. Hunters increase their luck by entering the lottery in years when they're not able to hunt. And people needing organ transplants increase their luck when they sign up through multiple transplant centers.  To get lucky in the dating app world, people can signal that they are worth investing in.  And then I loved Judd's insight on settling for silver. Whether we're trying to get lucky in college admissions, with restaurant reservations, or even in the dating market, we can increase our luck by pursuing a more attainable, less competitive option. And in many cases the silver turns out to be more desirable than the gold.

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.

This week on Monday Matters, Jen Schwanke and Will Parker discuss a post written by Will. Check out the post below and listen in to hear their thoughts on it! Random Moments, Major Outcomes by Will Parker I recently listened to an insightful episode of Hidden Brain that really provoked my thinking.  In the interview, […] The post MONDAY MATTERS with Jen Schwanke and Will Parker – Random Moments, Major Outcomes appeared first on Principal Matters.

On this Live Greatly podcast episode, Kristel Bauer sits down with Wharton economist and market designer Judd Kessler to discuss his book, LUCKY BY DESIGN: The Hidden Economics You Need to Get More of What You Want.  Tune in now!  Key Takeaways From This Episode: A look into Judd's book, LUCKY BY DESIGN: The Hidden Economics You Need to Get More of What You Want What are some examples of invisible rules Tips to try and get a reservation at a highly sought out restaurant  Going for gold versus going for silver Tips for being successful while auditioning and interviewing Suggestions when looking to apply to colleges ABOUT JUDD KESSLER: Judd B. Kessler is the inaugural Howard Marks Endowed Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. In 2021, Kessler was awarded the prestigious Vernon L. Smith Ascending Scholar Prize for his path breaking scholarship. For his work on the hidden market of organ allocation, Kessler was named one of the “30 under 30” in Law and Policy by Forbes. He is an award-winning teacher whose courses are popular among undergraduates, MBAs, PhD students, and executives, as well as a sought-after speaker. His research and writing have been featured in leading media, such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Scientific American, Harvard Business Review, Politico, NPR, Hidden Brain, and Freakonomics, among others. He received a bachelor's degree, MA, and PhD from Harvard University and an MPhil from the University of Cambridge. At Harvard, Kessler trained with Nobel laureate Alvin E. Roth, one of the founders of market design, the area in which he has been conducting research for the past fifteen years.  Connect with Judd Kessler Order Judd's book: https://juddbkessler.com/book  Website: https://juddbkessler.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juddkessler/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juddkessler/  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 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 has been featured in Forbes, Forest & Bluff Magazine, Authority Magazine & Podcast Magazine and she has appeared on ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago, Fox 4's WDAF-TV's Great Day KC, and Ticker News. Kristel lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida 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.

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.

Anyone with a passing familiarity with Buddhism will know that “delusion” is rarely, if ever, mentioned in a positive way. In fact, the Buddha included delusion (aka: confusion about the way things really are) on his list of “the three poisons.” The whole point of meditation, per the Buddha, is to uproot delusion -- along with greed and hatred. Only then can you be enlightened. My guest today is here to valiantly make the case that delusion -- or self-deception -- has an upside. Many upsides, in fact. While he concedes that self-deception can, of course, be massively harmful, he argues that it also plays a vital role in our success and wellbeing, and that it holds together friendships, marriages, and nations. Understanding this, he says, can make you happier, more effective, and -- crucially -- more empathetic with people with whom you disagree. Shankar Vedantam is the host of the popular podcast and radio show Hidden Brain. His latest book is called Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain. In this episode we talk about: the many ways our brains filter and alter our perception of reality why we evolved for a robust capacity to lie to ourselves and how his research on delusions has colored his view of the chaos and confusion of our modern world.    Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel   To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris   SPONSORS:  Bumble: Thinking about dating again? Take this as your sign and start your love story on Bumble.    AT&T: Staying connected matters. That's why AT&T has connectivity you can depend on, or they will proactively make it right. Visit att.com/guarantee for details. Odoo: Discover how you can take your business to the next level by visiting odoo.com. Modern management made simple.  

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

Perfectionism is everyone's favorite flaw. It's easy to assume that our push to be perfect is what leads to academic, athletic, and professional success. But how do we distinguish between high standards and unrealistic expectations? This week, we bring you a favorite conversation with psychologist Thomas Curran. He says perfectionism has a dark side, and that there are much healthier ways to strive for excellence. Then, we bring you the latest edition of our segment "Your Questions Answered." Sociologist Allison Pugh returns to the show to respond to listener questions about connective labor — the work of seeing another person, and having that person feel seen.The Hidden Brain tour continues this fall! Join us in Baltimore on October 11, Washington, D.C. on October 12, or Los Angeles on November 22. More info and tickets at hiddenbrain.org/tour.Episode image by Dadi Prayoga for Unsplash.com. 

If you've tried herbs, apps, breathing, or nervous system hacks and still feel anxious—this video explains why.The real root of anxiety isn't in your nervous system—it's in three powerful brain centers that keep you stuck in survival mode. In this video, you'll learn what they are, how to break through them, and the exact plan to step into your thriving brain this year.

When tragedy strikes, it's natural to be devastated. But psychologist George Bonanno finds that many of us recover from life's blows more quickly than we might expect. This week, we talk with Bonanno about his research and why it has changed how many scientists think about trauma and resilience.Do you have follow-up questions or comments after listening to this episode? If you'd be willing to share 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 “trauma.” Thanks! Episode illustration by Ahmed Hossam on Unsplash

What if the real reason high-achieving leaders plateau has nothing to do with drive, strategy, or mindset—but something deeper, hardwired into the brain's survival instincts? In this episode, our host Denise Cagan is joined by a fascinating guest, and together they uncover the invisible ceiling that holds leaders back, even when they're doing everything right. Mitch Weisburgh, creator of the Mind Shifting Method, joins the show to discuss his innovative approach to revealing how unconscious survival patterns sabotage success. He explains how leaders can rewire their internal operating system to lead, decide, and scale without burning out. Drawing from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and leadership strategy, Mitch shares the journey that led him from Education Technology to brain-based transformation, and the three essential elements every leader must master.   Welcome to a conversation that could shift the way you think, lead, and grow. About Your Host DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs. Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive. Connect with Denise DCA Virtual Business Support website. View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan. LinkedIn

Have you ever fallen asleep in school or during a work meeting? Maybe you felt your eyes glaze over as your boss or a teacher droned on and on about a topic that had no relevance to you. What's missing from these classrooms and conference rooms is engagement: A state of being absorbed, alert, and eager to learn. This week, psychologist and neuroscientist Mary Helen Immordino-Yang explores why so many of us feel apathetic at school and at work, and how to cultivate the magic of engagement.Do you have follow-up questions or comments after listening to this episode? If you'd be willing to share 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 “learning.” Thanks! Episode photo by Ismail Salad Osman Hajji dirir on Unsplash 

Aging isn't just a biological process. Our outlooks and emotions also change as we age, often in ways that boost our well-being. This week, we revisit a favorite conversation with psychologist Laura Carstensen, who helps us unpack the science behind this surprising finding, and shares what all of us can learn from older people. Then, as part of our ongoing series "Your Questions Answered," we revisit our follow-up chat with Laura, who responds to listeners' thoughts and questions and shares more of her research on what it means to live well as we age.Come see Shankar in person and help us to celebrate Hidden Brain's tenth anniversary! Our next stops on our "Perceptions" tour are Mesa, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. For more info and tickets, visit https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/ 

Why do some people risk their own lives to help another person, or give away their fortunes for the benefit of strangers? This week, we talk with psychologist and neuroscientist Abigail Marsh, who studies the science of altruism. We'll explore what's known about the brains of people who perform acts of remarkable selflessness, and how the rest of us can learn to be more like them. Do you have follow-up questions, comments, or stories about altruism and generosity after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing 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 “generosity.” And if you liked today's conversation, please check out our sister podcast, "My Unsung Hero." You can find the show on this podcast platform, or by visiting our website: https://hiddenbrain.org/myunsunghero/The Hidden Brain tour heads to Toronto on Wednesday, August 6! Join Shankar there or at one of our upcoming stops in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., or Los Angeles. More info and tickets here: https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/  

We all tell stories about ourselves, often without realizing we're doing so. How we frame those stories can profoundly shape our lives. In our latest You 2.0 episode, we bring you a favorite conversation with psychologist Jonathan Adler. He shares how to tell our stories in ways that enhance our wellbeing. Then, Max Bazerman answers your questions about the science of negotiation.Do you have follow-up questions or ideas that you'd like to share after listening to our conversation with Jonathan Adler? How do you tell the story of your life, and  how does that shape the way you see yourself? If you're comfortable sharing your thoughts and questions 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 “personal stories.” 

Your brain runs four sophisticated protection programs that sabotage weight loss, and it has nothing to do with willpower or discipline. This episode reveals the neuroscience behind why you've struggled with weight and provides a proven 7-day protocol to reprogram your subconscious mind for lasting change.Important points mentioned…Your brain isn't broken → Every "failed" diet attempt was actually your subconscious doing its job perfectly, protecting you from perceived threatsIdentity protection drives food choices → If you learned that being "the funny fat friend" meant acceptance, your brain will resist weight loss to maintain that identityThe unworthiness algorithm limits success → Many people unconsciously believe they can't have it all, so when life improves in other areas, they sabotage their health to restore "balance"Food becomes emotional security → Early associations between food and safety, love, or belonging create powerful neural pathways that bypass logical decision-makingControl issues fuel food rebellion → Childhood food restriction creates adult patterns where any dietary rules trigger subconscious rebellion against perceived powerlessnessAwareness precedes change → You can't fight your subconscious programming, but you can work with it once you understand what's running in the backgroundNeuroplasticity allows reprogramming → Your brain created these protective patterns and can create new, healthier ones at any ageResources MentionedDr. Lisa Feldman Barrett's research → Brain prediction patterns and emotional regulation Dr. Gay Hendricks → "Upper Limit Problem" concept from relationship and success psychologyDr. Judson Brewer's research → Habit formation and automatic behavioral patterns Reactance Theory → Psychological principle explaining rebellion against perceived controlActionable Steps for ListenersImmediate Assessment (Do This Now)Complete the four programming questions:If I lost all the weight I wanted, I would no longer be...I don't deserve to be healthy and attractive because...My earliest food memory involves...The area of my life where I feel most powerless is...Document one recent eating episode where you ate when not hungry and identify what emotion or need preceded itDay 1: Complete the assessment questions above without trying to change anything Day 2: Analyze one non-hunger eating episode from the past week, noting emotions and unmet needsDay 3: Practice one small act of non-food self-care that provides comfort or nurturing Day 4: Write down your exact self-talk around food and weight, noting whose voice it resemblesDay 5: Engage in one activity that expands your identity beyond your weight (hobby, class, meaningful conversation) Day 6: Practice receiving something small (compliment, help, kindness) without deflectingDay 7: Make one autonomous choice that reminds you of your personal agency and powerOngoing Reprogramming StrategiesQuestion inherited beliefs → Ask where food and body beliefs originated and whether they serve you now Create new neural associations → Gather evidence that contradicts limiting beliefs about weight and worthinessExpand identity language → Replace "I'm someone who struggles with weight" with "I'm someone learning to care for...

What does it mean to be stoic? Many of us assume it means you have a stiff upper lip, or that you suppress your emotions. That's what Massimo Pigliucci thought — until he started to peruse a book called Meditations. It was written nearly two thousand years ago by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. But Massimo, now a philosopher, says Meditations, and Stoic philosophy more broadly, offer wisdom that continues to speak to our lives. This week, we explore Stoic ideas and what they tell us about a life well lived. Do you have follow-up questions and ideas about stoicism after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing your comments and questions 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 “stoicism.”   

In episodes 162 and 163 we talked about Ethan Krosses book "Chatter" and how to manage your inner voice.Now we want to talk about his book "Shift: Managing Your Emotions - So They Don't Manage You"We were introduced to his book when we listened to the podcast "Hidden Brain" episode: How to Harness Your Feelings.For survivors of abuse being able to manage your emotions in a healthy way can be one of the most important skills to have - especially when dealing with the issues from being a survivor.We have found that the techniques that he recommends for managing your emotions are very helpful and are easy to learn.We are re - posting this episode because there was a mistake we made the first time so we have corrected it.bolgerkevin15@gmail.com

Many of us believe that hard work and persistence are the key to achieving our goals. But is that true when it comes to the pursuit of happiness? This week, we revisit a conversation with psychologist Iris Mauss, who explains why happiness can seem more elusive the harder we chase it, and what we can do instead to build a lasting sense of contentment. Then, we bring you the latest edition of our segment "Your Questions Answered." Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks answers listener questions on how to be a better conversationalist — from what to do when the other person isn't contributing, to how to stop others from interrupting.Miss our original episodes with Alison Wood Brooks? They're called "We Need to Talk" and "The Conversations that Bring Us Closer." Do you have follow-up questions, thoughts, or ideas about the pursuit of happiness after listening to our conversation with Iris Mauss? 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 "happiness." Thanks!  

You've probably heard the saying, “Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life.” The idea is that pursuing your passion will feel invigorating — almost magical. But passions can easily wane over time. This week, behavioral scientist Jon Jachimowicz looks at how to keep our passions alive, and how to channel old passions into new pursuits.Do you have follow-up questions for Jon Jachimowicz, or ideas that you'd like to share after listening to this episode? If you'd be willing to share them 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 "passion."And a reminder that our live tour is underway! Shankar is traveling across the U.S. and Canada to share some of the key ideas he's learned in the first decade of the show. To see if we're coming to a city near you, please visit hiddenbrain.org/tour.  

What should you do with your life? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. But there are scientifically-tested methods that can help you to feel more in harmony with yourself and the world. This week, and in a companion conversation for Hidden Brain+, researcher Victor Strecher explores the science of creating a life full of meaning. It's the kickoff to our annual You 2.0 series, which this year will focus on purpose and passion. If you've reached the midpoint of the year and you're feeling adrift, alone, or burned out, this series is for you.  Do you have follow-up questions for Victor Strecher, or ideas that you'd like to share after listening to this episode? If you'd be willing to share them 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 "purpose."And a reminder that our live tour is underway! Shankar is traveling across the U.S. and Canada to share some of the key ideas he's learned in the first decade of the show. To see if we're coming to a city near you, please visit hiddenbrain.org/tour.  

In episodes 162 and 163 we talked about Ethan Krosses book "Chatter" and how to manage your inner voice.Now we want to talk about his book "Shift: Managing Your Emotions - So They Don't Manage You"We were introduced to his book when we listened to the podcast "Hidden Brain" episode: How to Harness Your FeelingsFor survivors of abuse being able to manage your emotions in a healthy way can be one of the most important skills to have - especially when dealing with the issues from being a survivorWe have found that the techniques that he recommends for managing your emotions are very helpful and easy to learn

At first this episode was titled “There Is No Rigor In Perfection, There Is Rigor In Your Play”. In a recent episode of one of my favorite podcasts Hidden Brain, psychologist Paul Bloom describes why play is an essential choreography of aliveness for most human and non-human species. He says it's essential because it's a container for “safe practice”. I keep thinking about this phrase, “safe practice”. Oftentimes perfectionism is mistaken for rigor. These two are NOT the same. Perfectionism stops us from starting, rigor invites us to try. The fear rooted in perfectionism is an indication of feeling unsafe inside our practice. My intention inside this episode is to offer spells for cultivating a felt sense of safety inside our practice through rigorous play. ResourcesLet's Work Together 1:1 On Launching Your Newsletter in 8 Weeks: https://www.seedaschool.com/coachingSubscribe to the Seeda School Substack: ⁠https://seedaschool.substack.com/⁠Follow Ayana on Instagram: ⁠⁠@ayzaco⁠⁠Follow Ayana on Threads: ⁠⁠@ayzaco⁠⁠Follow Seeda School on Instagram: ⁠⁠@seedaschool⁠Citations“God Owes Me A Favor: Let's Collectively Call It In” by Ayana Zaire Cotton“Ouch! That Feels Great”, Hidden Brain Podcast Episode with psychologist Paul Bloom and Shankar VedantamAlexis Pauline Gumbs on Finding CeremonyZora Neale Hurston, “The Dream is the Truth” in Their Eyes Were Watching Godnènè myriam konaté's Substack, Instagram and Manifest(o) RetreatOcean Vuong on being "summoned, despite yourself"Cover Art: Lorna Simpson, did time elapse (2024) Materials: Acrylic and screenprint on gessoed fiberglass Dimensions: 259.1 x 365.8 x 3.5 cm / 102 x 144 x 1 3/8 in. "Together, Simpson's incandescent paintings draw attention to the danger hidden in beauty and, conversely, the beauty hidden in danger. Bringing us face to face with phenomena rarely witnessed by the human eye, they ask us to locate ourselves in the context of the cosmos." (Source: Hauser & Wirth)

With the uncertain state of the economy right now, money is on most people's minds. Now is the perfect time to explore why our finances are so much more than “just numbers,” and how intricately emotions and money intertwine.My guest, Aja Evans, is a financial therapist and the author of the new book, Feel Good Finance. After noticing how often people in therapy sessions breeze past their money stresses, she set out to make talking through our financial concerns more commonplace. This one is certain to resonate—Aja's insights left me feeling like I'd just had a cathartic therapy session myself.Identify your financial priorities and values with Aja's expert advice:Why we need to consider our childhoods when thinking about money;How we can talk about money with our kids to set them up for their own financial futures;The hefty, wide-ranging impact of financial trauma (and why we need to address it);How to start figuring out our basic needs and making brave changes to get aligned.Related Links:Learn more about Aja's work - https://ajaevanscounseling.com/Get a copy of “Feel Good Finance” - https://bookshop.org/p/books/feel-good-finance-untangle-your-relationship-with-money-for-better-mental-emotional-and-financial-well-being-aja-evans/21301669Connect with Aja on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ajaetherapy/Listen to Hidden Brain, “Rewrite Your Money Story” - https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/money-2-0-rewrite-your-money-story/TAKE ACTION with Bossed Up - https://www.bossedup.org/takeactionBossed Up Courage Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/927776673968737/Bossed Up LinkedIn Group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/7071888/

There's a saying that's attributed to the Dalai Lama: in the practice of tolerance, one's enemy is the best teacher. It's a nice idea. But when people don't share our values, it's hard for us to tolerate theirs. This week, we bring you a favorite episode with sociologist Robb Willer. We discuss the common mistakes we make in trying to persuade others of our point of view — and how to break out of our echo chambers. Then, Kenji Yoshino answers your questions about how we hide our true selves.In this week's show, you'll learn:*What's happening in our minds when we're trying to win an argument.*Techniques for how to take another person's perspective — and how to become more effective in persuading them of your perspective.*The most successful protest tactics in winning allies.*Why we might shift from trying to change someone's mind to trying to change their behavior.If you love Hidden Brain, come see Shankar live in a city near you this summer! For more info and tickets to our “Perceptions” tour, visit https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/

Last week we talked about Ethan Krosses book "Chatter" and how so much of it applies to survivors of abuse and the methods that are useful to understand and control chatter in our lives.This week we take another look at chatter and how we can help others with their issues with their chatter and how we can receive help from others with our own chatter.This issue of chatter can be so pervasive and intrusive for survivors of abuse since we are often taught lies by the perpetrators that have long lasting affects in our lives and lead to negative chatter that can be overwhelming.If you enjoyed these episodes we highly recommend you read the book "Chatter" by Ethan Kross, and his other book "Shift" about managing emotions, that we plan to discuss in an upcoming episode.We also would like to recommend the podcast "Hidden Brain" with the host Shankar Vedantam which has been a great source of information and inspiration to us.

Why does food feel impossible to resist—even when you're not hungry?If you've ever found yourself eating on autopilot, grabbing snacks without thinking, or feeling out of control around your favorite foods… this episode will connect the dots in a way that finally makes sense.You'll discover:The surprising reason your brain keeps pulling you toward food—even when your body says “I've had enough” and what to do about it Why willpower isn't the problem (and what actually is)A new approach to stop the mental war with food—without cutting out the things you loveThis isn't about restriction. It's about freedom.Hit play to learn how to retrain your brain and finally trust yourself around food again.Did you enjoy the episode? DM me on instagram and let me know what you thought.

Learning to play a musical instrument is hard. So is trying to run a marathon, writing a term paper, and caring for a sick child. These things involve frustration, pain, and disappointment — yet we do them anyway. This week, in part two of our look at the allure of suffering, psychologist Michael Inzlicht explains what we get from doing things that are difficult, and why the things we think will make us happy often do not.Hidden Brain is hitting the road this summer! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from the first decade of the show. For more info, and to purchase tickets, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. 

Chatter is about that voice in our head that can sometimes become that static that interrupts everything and takes us over for awhile"Chatter" is the title of the book by Ethan Kross that I actually discovered when listening to "Hidden Brain" the podcast by Shankar Vedantam episode "How to Harness Your Feelings" about Ethan Krosses book "Shift"When I researched the title "Chatter" I realized that I really was interested in this topic because it is so relevant for anyone who is a survivor of abuse because that chatter from our inner voice can sometimes be so overwhelmingWhat the book talks about is how to use your inner voice to produce positive results in your life and have hopeWe highly recommend both of these books by Ethan Kross and hope that you will try these methods to understand your inner voice

We generally think of pain as something to be avoided. But psychologist Paul Bloom says that as much as we're wired to avoid suffering, we also seek it out. This week, we begin a two-part mini series about the curious pleasure we take in certain forms of pain.Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from the first decade of the show. For more info and tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/. 

Revenge often feels sweet, but what price do we pay for seeking it out? Researcher James Kimmel, Jr. proposes a radical theory: our desire for vengeance operates like an addiction in the brain. This week, how “revenge addiction” plays out in our everyday lives — and on a global scale. Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join us as Shankar shares seven key insights he's learned from the show over the past decade. To see if we're coming to your city, and to purchase tickets, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. 

Have you ever encountered someone who clearly knows you, but you have no idea who they are? This week, we feature a classic Hidden Brain episode about people on opposite ends of the facial recognition spectrum. Then, in the second part of the show, we bring you another perspective on facial recognition from the Revisionist History podcast. Host Malcolm Gladwell struggles with identifying faces, while producer Lucie Sullivan is exceptional at it.Hidden Brain is about to kickoff a nationwide tour! Join Shankar as he shares seven key insights from the first decade of the show. To find out if we're coming to a city near you, and purchase tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/

You probably know someone who thinks they know more about something than they really do. But you could never be described that way . . . could you? This week, cognitive scientist Phil Fernbach explains the "illusion of knowledge" — the fact that we think we understand the world in much greater detail than we actually do. He'll explore why this happens, and how to close the gap between what we know and what we think we know. Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from the first decade of the show. For more info and tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/

Do you feel like you control your emotions, or do your emotions control you? What scientists call "emotion regulation" turns out to be one of the most important life skills we can possess. It's essential in dealing with setbacks, in balancing risks and rewards, and in maintaining successful relationships. This week, psychologist Ethan Kross explores the growing and fascinating science of managing our emotions. He explains why our feelings so often go astray, and shares insights into how to reel them back in.In this episode, you'll learn:*How to coach yourself through emotionally intense moments. *Why certain types of personal writing can help with your thorniest problems or challenges. *How to use music and your physical senses to regulate your mood. *How to use the technique of "selective avoidance" to shortcut emotional spirals and "what if" thinking.Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join Shankar in a city near you as we explore lessons we've learned in Hidden Brain's first decade. For more info and to purchase tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/. 

There's no magic potion that can make someone adore you. But there are things you can do to promote a deep and enduring connection — and even feelings of passion — between yourself and your partner. In the final chapter of our Relationships 2.0 series, psychologist Arthur Aron shares some techniques for falling and staying in love. In today's conversation, we explore:*The assumption that love fades over time.*The effects of daily routine on romantic relationships.*What our choice in a romantic partners says about us*How successful long-term couples keep love aliveIf you love Hidden Brain, please join us for our upcoming live tour! Shankar will be visiting cities across the U.S., and our listeners have the first crack at purchasing tickets. You can get yours at https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/. Use the pre-sale code BRAIN. We hope to see you there!  

As you go about your day, you likely interact with family, friends and coworkers. These relationships can help you feel cared for and connected. But what if there's a whole category of people in your life whose impact is overlooked? Today, in a favorite episode from our archives, psychologist Gillian Sandstrom reveals some simple ways to make your life a little more joyful and maybe even a little less lonely. Then, we talk with researcher Erica Bailey, who responds to listeners' questions about authenticity and how to reveal our true selves to the people around us.In this episode you'll learn: The sociological concept of "weak" and "strong" ties, and the important roles they play in our lives.How "weak ties" contribute to our happiness.How to talk to strangers — including how to start, maintain, and end a conversation.How to decrease feelings of loneliness and increase feelings of connectivity in your daily life.If you enjoyed today's conversation with Gillian Sandstrom, be sure to check out these other Hidden Brain episodes: You 2.0: The Gift of Other PeopleHow Others See You 

When we head into a negotiation — whether we're asking for a raise or trying to get our spouse to do the dishes — our focus is usually on getting the other person to agree to our preferred outcome.  What we don't focus on are our own biases and blind spots. Behavioral scientist Max Bazerman studies the theory and practice of negotiation, and he says that paying attention to these biases can help us to craft better deals.Do you have a follow-up question after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing your question with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone. Email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “negotiation.” Thanks!  

All of us want to "seen" by the people around us. We want to be recognized as unique individuals. Yet the experience of being seen in this way can be dispiritingly rare. This week, we kick off our "Relationships 2.0" series by talking with researcher Allison Pugh about the psychological benefits of what she calls "connective labor." She explains why this labor is often overlooked, and how to cultivate the superpower of making other people feel seen.  In this episode, you'll learn: *The definition of connective labor, and why this skill is like "engine grease" for our personal and professional relationships.*Why connective labor is vital to success in a surprisingly broad array of careers. *The gender stereotypes around connective labor, and why these stereotypes overlook the role that men play as connectors. *How connective labor affects our mental and physical health.*How connective labor by teachers may affect students' ability to learn. *How to slow down in interactions with other people and explore the emotional context behind their words. If you have a follow-up question for Allison Pugh after listening to this episode, and you'd be willing to share it with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone. Once you've done so, email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line “connection.” And thanks for listening!    

Often in life, we find ourselves wrestling with a decision. But in running these mental calculations, there's something we rarely consider about the future: we might not be the same person when we get there. This week, philosopher L.A. Paul explores how life-altering events reshape who we are.Want more of our work on understanding your future self? Give these Hidden Brain episodes a listen: https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/you-2-0-how-to-see-yourself-clearly/https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/you-2-0-decide-already/https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/you-2-0-your-future-is-now/https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/the-ventilator/And for the latest insights about human behavior, delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for the weekly Hidden Brain newsletter! Each issue brings you the latest research, along with a brain teaser and a moment of joy. You can read and subscribe here: https://news.hiddenbrain.org/

Have you ever downplayed some aspect of your identity? Maybe you don't hide it, but you don't bring it up with certain people, either.  It turns out that these subtle disguises can have powerful effects on how we view ourselves. This week, we talk with legal scholar Kenji Yoshino about what happens when we soften or edit our true selves.Do you have a follow-up question for Kenji Yoshino after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing your question with the larger Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo on your phone and email it to us at ideas@hiddenbrain.org. Use the subject line "covering." Thanks! 

What would you have done? It's one of the most enduring questions in psychology. We all like to think that in a moment of crisis, we'd rise to the occasion and show courage. And yet many of us have had experiences where we followed orders and did what we were told to do. This week, we talk with psychologist Sunita Sah about the reasons why many of us silence ourselves and follow orders, and how we can align our words and actions with our values.In today's conversation, Shankar mentioned our episode with Timur Kuran, in which we talk about self-censorship and a concept called "preference falsification." You can find that episode here. And if you'd like to try Hidden Brain+ and hear our bonus conversation with Sunita Sah, you can sign up for a free trial at apple.co/hiddenbrain or support.hiddenbrain.org. Thanks for listening! 

Just because we've been doing something for a long time doesn't mean we're doing it right. One part of our lives where this may be particularly true is when we're talking with others. This week, we bring you the first of a two-part look at what makes someone skilled at socializing. Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks explains why conversations are much more complex than most of us realize — and how to engage in a more meaningful back-and-forth with another person.For more of our work on the art of conversation, check out these classic Hidden Brain episodes: Why Conversations Go WrongRelationships 2.0: How to Keep Conflict from Spiraling  

Holding a grudge can feel like a form of justice, a way of punishing those who have wronged us. But psychologist Fred Luskin says that more often than not, grudges don't hurt the targets of our anger. Instead, they only hurt us. This week, we explore the lingering effects of long-standing animosities, and how to let them go.If you enjoyed today's conversation, be sure to check out these classic Hidden Brain episodes about apologies and forgiveness:The Power of MercyHealing 2.0: The Power of ApologiesHow to Make Amends

"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." It's been 45 years since John Lennon sang that line, yet it's an idea that continues to speak to an uncomfortable truth. While we all like to think we have some measure of control over how our lives will unfold, our plans are often upended by unknown events and curveballs we couldn't have predicted. This week, we conclude our Wellness 2.0 series by talking with political scientist Brian Klaas. He studies how we respond to the random events that shape our lives, and how we can turn them to our advantage.If you enjoy this episode, be sure to check out "Wellness 2.0: Engineering Luck," our companion conversation with Brian Klass for Hidden Brain+ subscribers. We'll talk about the unexpected benefits of embracing the role of randomness and chance in our lives. If you're not yet a member of Hidden Brain+, this is a particularly good time to give our podcast subscription a try. We're extending our standard seven-day trial period for listeners on Apple Podcasts. Sign up in January and you'll get 30 free days to try it out. If you're listening in Apple Podcasts, just go to the Hidden Brain show page and click "try free." Or you can go to apple.co/hiddenbrain and click "try free.” Thanks for listening and supporting the show — we really appreciate it. 

It's no exaggeration to say that the world in 2025 can be ... a lot. Sometimes it may seem that tuning it all out is our only option. This week on Hidden Brain, we talk with researcher Sarah Jaquette Ray about how we can reclaim our sense of efficacy and purpose in the face of big, systemic problems like climate change. Then, we bring you an audio essay from writer Pico Iyer, who shares his thoughts on how we can regain our footing when life is overwhelming. If you're not yet a member of Hidden Brain+, this is a particularly good time to give our podcast subscription a try. We're extending our standard seven-day trial period for listeners on Apple Podcasts. Sign up in January and you'll get 30 free days to try it out. If you're listening in Apple Podcasts, just go to the Hidden Brain show page and click "try free." Or you can go to apple.co/hiddenbrain and click "try free.” Thanks for listening and supporting the show — we really appreciate it. 

We all have to make certain choices in life, such as where to live and how to earn a living. Parents and peers influence our major life choices, but they can also steer us in directions that leave us deeply unsatisfied. This week: a favorite conversation with psychologist Ken Sheldon about the science of figuring out what you want. He says there are things we can do to make sure our choices align with our deepest values.If you're not yet a member of Hidden Brain+, this is a particularly good time to give our podcast subscription a try. We're extending our standard seven-day trial period for listeners on Apple Podcasts. Sign up in January and you'll get 30 free days to try it out. If you're listening in Apple Podcasts, just go to the Hidden Brain show page and click "try free." Or you can go to apple.co/hiddenbrain and click "try free.” Thanks for listening and supporting the show — we really appreciate it. 

From time to time, all of us are called upon to do hard or even seemingly impossible things. Do we rise to the occasion, or do we fall short? Today on the show, we examine the psychology of pushing through a crisis. We talk with psychologist Adam Galinsky about great leaders, and what they can teach us about being steadfast in the face of challenges.For more on leading during moments of crisis, please check out "Wellness 2.0: The Power of Perspective," our companion conversation with Adam Galinsky. It's available for listeners to our podcast subscription, Hidden Brain+. Right now is a great time to try Hidden Brain+, as we're extending our standard seven-day trial period for subscribers on Apple Podcasts. Sign up in January and you'll receive 30 free days to try it out. You can sample Hidden Brain+ by finding the show in Apple Podcasts and clicking "try free." Or go to apple.co/hiddenbrain. Thanks for listening!