Why do I feel stuck? How can I become more creative? What can I do to improve my relationships? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re not alone. On Hidden Brain, we help you understand your own mind — and the minds of the people around you. (We're routinely rated the #1 science podcast in the United States.) Hosted by veteran science journalist Shankar Vedantam.
What this show covers
psychologyrelationshipsspiritualitycreativitywell-beingemotionsnegativity biasmental habitsmeaningconfidenceresiliencecommunicationhappinesssufferinguncertainty
What listeners will find here
Why your mind may be steering you toward unhappiness
This episode examines why unhappiness may come less from circumstances and more from habits of mind that pull attention toward the negative. George Loewenstein explores those inner forces, and Alison Ledgerwood answers listener questions about negativity bias.
Kate Bowler on suffering, meaning, and why life resists easy answers
This episode examines how people make sense of tragedy when life offers no satisfying explanation. Historian Kate Bowler reflects on living with Stage IV cancer, and psychologist Lisa Miller answers listener questions about science and spirituality.
Martin Seligman on rebuilding agency when discouraging thoughts take over
Discouraging thoughts can make it feel like your actions don’t matter. In this second conversation with psychologist Martin Seligman, the episode explores how to strengthen agency, spot new possibilities, and build confidence in your ability to influence what happens next.
Why some people give up—and how optimism can restore a sense of agency
Learned helplessness is at the center of this episode, as psychologist Martin Seligman explains why some people stop believing their actions matter. It also looks at how optimism and the stories we tell about setbacks can help us regain the ability to make a difference.
Why everyday conversations with family and partners so often misfire
This episode looks at how mismatched conversational styles can create conflict with moms, spouses, and other close relationships. Deborah Tannen explains why people can leave the same exchange with totally different impressions, and Emma Levine answers listener questions about the psychology of lying.
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