Passion Struck with John R. Miles Dr. Ethan Kross on the Hidden Power of Our Inner Voice EP 245
4 snips
Jan 24, 2023 
Dr. Ethan Kross, award-winning psychologist and author who studies inner speech, explains the hidden power of the voice in our heads. He explores how internal dialogue shapes performance, relationships, and well-being. Short strategies and surprising stories show when self-talk helps, when it harms, and simple ways to step back and regain control.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Emotions Are Tools Not Errors
- We are born with emotions as tools that can help or harm depending on how they're used.
- Ethan Kross explains we lack a user manual, so science can provide guidelines to calibrate emotions for better thinking, relationships, and health.
Venting Strengthens Bonds But Not Recovery
- Venting to others increases social connection but doesn't resolve negative emotions.
- Kross cites research showing rehashing feelings keeps negative emotions active, leaving people as upset after venting as before.
Threat Letter Triggered Uncontrollable Chatter
- A hostile letter after TV appearances triggered panic and prolonged rumination for Ethan Kross despite his expertise.
- He paced with a baseball bat, lost appetite, and couldn't work, which later led him to test and adopt tools that stopped the chatter.