

The Science of Self
Peter Hollins
Despite so many studies being done on improving ourselves, it can be hard to find specific, actionable steps to make our lives better.
Bestselling authors cut out the jargon and pop psychology to give insight and tips to be a better you.
If you want proven ways and applicable tips to live a better life, listen in weekly and improve your life from the inside out!
Bestselling authors cut out the jargon and pop psychology to give insight and tips to be a better you.
If you want proven ways and applicable tips to live a better life, listen in weekly and improve your life from the inside out!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2026 • 28min
Decoding Our Ancestors: How Evolutionary Psychology Explains Fear, Phobias, and Irrational Behavior
00:00:25 Hello listeners00:05:59 Phobias00:12:04 Anxiety and Fear00:20:38 Does Free Will Exist?00:25:30 Takeaways00:00:25 Hello listeners00:05:59 Phobias00:12:04 Anxiety and Fear00:20:38 Does Free Will Exist?00:25:30 TakeawaysPsychological Triggers: Human Nature, Irrationality, and Why We Do What We Do. The Hidden Influences Behind Our Actions, Thoughts, and Behaviors. (Understand Your Brain Better)By: Peter Hollins Hear it Here - https://bit.ly/psychologicaltriggershollinsUnderstand, avoid, and defeat the subconscious causes of your irrational and self-defeating behaviors. It’s only human nature.A psychological trigger is something that causes us to act out of urgency - not correctness or even happiness. It’s a switch that is flipped outside of our consciousness. This is fertile ground for some of the worst decisions of our lives.Seize control and of your impulses and make better decisions.Psychological Triggers is an introduction to yourself - your impulses, your desires, and everything in your subconscious that drives you to action. It answers the question, “Why did I just make a terrible choice when I know I shouldn’t have?”We are all slaves to our triggers, and this book seeks to identify them to better battle them. We might think we are making our decisions independently and out of free will, but you’ll discover that to be far from reality.Master your psychology, master your life.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with a multitude of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience.Think clearly and triumph over your human nature.•The triggering effects of social pressure and conformity.•How everyday emotions are behind some of the most powerful triggers.•Natural, biological, evolutionary human drives - can you regulate them?•Simple thinking traps we all fall victim to.•The notion of free will and whether it truly exists.Beat psychological triggers, reclaim your free will, and irrationality.Is purely rational thinking, devoid of emotion and human drives, a reality? Probably not. But you can certainly live free from your worst impulses and irrational hunches, which are what psychological triggers create more often than not. See yourself thrive from consistently making beneficial decisions and defeating your primal psychology. Understand, avoid, and defeat the subconscious causes of your irrational and self-defeating behaviors. It’s only human nature.A psychological trigger is something that causes us to act out of urgency - not correctness or even happiness. It’s a switch that is flipped outside of our consciousness. This is fertile ground for some of the worst decisions of our lives.Seize control and of your impulses and make better decisions.Psychological Triggers is an introduction to yourself - your impulses, your desires, and everything in your subconscious that drives you to action. It answers the question, “Why did I just make a terrible choice when I know I shouldn’t have?”We are all slaves to our triggers, and this book seeks to identify them to better battle them. We might think we are making our decisions independently and out of free will, but you’ll discover that to be far from reality.Master your psychology, master your life.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with a multitude of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience.Think clearly and triumph over your human nature.• The triggering effects of social pressure and conformity.• How everyday emotions are behind some of the most powerful triggers.• Natural, biological, evolutionary human drives - can you regulate them?• Simple thinking traps we all fall victim to.• The notion of free will and whether it truly exists.Beat psychological triggers, reclaim your free will, and irrationality.Is purely rational thinking, devoid of emotion and human drives, a reality? Probably not. But you can certainly live free from your worst impulses and irrational hunches, which are what psychological triggers create more often than not. See yourself thrive from consistently making beneficial decisions and defeating your primal psychology. .

Mar 19, 2026 • 30min
From Eureka to Empires: Archimedes' Genius and the Legacy of Scientific Discovery
00:00:28 Hello listeners00:01:03 “Give me a place to stand and a lever long enough, and I will move the world."00:13:40 • Use breaks and rest strategically.00:14:31 • Cut down on noise and distraction.00:15:17 • Honor your random insights and epiphanies by writing them down when they happen.00:18:00 • Find a task so engrossing that it makes the rest of the world disappear.00:18:29 • It may sound obvious, but if you’re “on a roll,” don’t forcefully stop yourself.00:18:46 • Even our passions can be a drag sometimes, but it’s often just a question of getting started and staying with a task long enough for our own natural momentum to kick in.00:20:00 • Whatever you’re trying to learn, find ways to anchor it in your everyday life.00:28:31 Questions for reflection00:00:28 Hello listeners00:01:03 “Give me a place to stand and a lever long enough, and I will move the world."00:13:40 • Use breaks and rest strategically.00:14:31 • Cut down on noise and distraction.00:15:17 • Honor your random insights and epiphanies by writing them down when they happen.00:18:00 • Find a task so engrossing that it makes the rest of the world disappear.00:18:29 • It may sound obvious, but if you’re “on a roll,” don’t forcefully stop yourself.00:18:46 • Even our passions can be a drag sometimes, but it’s often just a question of getting started and staying with a task long enough for our own natural momentum to kick in.00:20:00 • Whatever you’re trying to learn, find ways to anchor it in your everyday life.00:28:31 Questions for reflectionThink Like the Greats: Lessons from History’s Top Performers, Champions, and Masters (Mental Models for Better Living Book 9)By Peter Hollinshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD8QJZCVWhat if the secret to greatness isn’t talent, but how you think?Imagine channeling the calm discipline of Marcus Aurelius in chaos, the precision of Marie Curie in pursuit of truth, the inventive fire of Archimedes under pressure, the emotional genius of Shakespeare on the page, and the relentless artistry of Mozart in the face of rejection.THINK LIKE THE GREATS is not a biography compilation — it’s your mental upgrade, built on the tested thinking patterns of the world’s most iconic performers, inventors, creators, and philosophers. These were not just individuals of talent, but of uncommon perspective — and this book decodes their mental frameworks for modern use.Inside, you’ll uncover how to: Strengthen Mental Clarity and Control: Apply Stoic reasoning from Marcus Aurelius to stay steady in a turbulent world. Fuel Lifelong Curiosity and Grit: Embrace the scientific persistence and intellectual courage of Marie Curie to solve hard problems. Think in First Principles: Adopt Archimedes’ radical approach to innovation and insight — not just solving problems, but reframing them. Master Emotional Intelligence Through Story: Learn how Shakespeare used narrative to expose human truth and influence minds across centuries. Produce at a High Level with Consistency: Unpack the rituals and resilience behind Mozart’s relentless creativity and output.Whether you’re building a company, crafting your legacy, or just hungry to be better — the masters of history have already left the blueprint. This book hands it to you.Stop following the average path. Start thinking like the greats — and create your own enduring masterpiece.

Mar 12, 2026 • 24min
Breaking Free: From Laziness to Laser Focus - Mastering Mindset & Action
00:00:27 Hello listeners, welcome to The Science of Self00:05:34 The Different Types of Laziness00:20:21 Make the Serenity Prayer your new mantraHow To Do Things You Hate: Self-Discipline to Suffer Less, Embrace the Suck, and Achieve Anything (Live a Disciplined Life Book 16) By: Peter Hollinshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CGRD68JL Doing things you hate is a skill. And it's a skill that is always in high demand.Look, you can teach hard skills. You can teach a monkey to do lots of things that humans can do. But you can't force them to work without a monkey revolt on your hands.All growth comes from discomfort and the ability to push through.How To Do Things You Hate is a primer on how you can embody the self-discipline to live the life you want. It's not easy; otherwise everyone would be there. It requires surmounting boulders, crossing oceans, and not a small amount of pain. It's always worth it, but are you able to get there? Are you tough enough? Can you find the motivation inside you somewhere? Are you able to taking it on the chin?After this book, you will be able to resoundingly say YES!Self-discipline and willpower are the best habits, because everything can stack on them.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with a multitude of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience.Not just more productivity, but you'll start to notice that your to-do list will always be DONE.-Diagnose and understand the exact type of laziness problem you have and why your butt is always glued to the couch.-The value of discomfort and how to love it with daily exercises and practices that make you absolutely monk-like.-The incredibly valuable 90-second rule of emotional volatility and self-mastery.-The doom loop of procrastination and how you are probably caught in it right now, every day.-How you should approach your daily tasks like a pro athlete with daily routines, and activation modes .

Oct 13, 2025 • 1min
We Are On A Break
Brief Break, Back SoonLouisa: [00:00:00] Hello everyone, and thank you so much for tuning in to our series. We wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and engagement. Your enthusiasm inspires us to keep creating and sharing meaningful content with you.As you may already know, we'll be taking a short break. But don't worry, this pause is just an opportunity for us to recharge, gather new ideas, and come back with even more exciting episodes that we know you'll love. We anticipate returning with fresh and inspiring content in just a few weeks.In the meantime, feel free to catch up on any episodes you might have missed or revisit your favorites. We’ll be back before you know it, ready to explore new topics and share even more amazing stories. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to embark on this next chapter together.Stay tuned for updates, and until then, take care and keep being amazing. Thank you once again for listening. [00:01:00] See you soon!

Sep 18, 2025 • 23min
Unlock Your Brainpower: Mastering Memory & Test-Taking with Retrieval Practice & Spaced Repetition 🎧 🧠 📚
00:08:41 Successive relearning, according to learning expert Bill Cerbin00:14:43 Here are a few steps to get you started00:21:29 Here are the primary takeaways from today's episode.Become a Studying and Learning Machine: Strategies For the Top of the Class, Promotions, and Smashing Your Goals (Learning how to Learn Book 27) By Peter HollinsHear it Here - bit.ly/4hqQa5qhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D41QTWPYThe best students, the top performers, the quickest learners - it's not by luck. They know what they're doing, and you can be like them too.We've never been taught how to learn. Yet learning is the keystone to any goal you want to achieve. Let's start changing your life with this very book.A learning structure and framework that takes you from A-Z, in what to do and how to approach it.STUDYING AND LEARNING MACHINE takes you on a psychological and physiological journey of your brain and how to work with it best. What your brain likes and hates - that will 1000% impact how quickly and effectively you learn. The more you learn, the more you earn! So let's go on this journey together of how to maximize your time, money, and life path!Master your approach and save countless hours.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with a multitude of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience.Smarter, faster, and better ways to achieve expertise.-What Descartes had to say about effective reading and retention.-How to 'scaffold' content that you read for better memorization.-The STIC framework and how it makes your brain want to help you learn better.-Understanding various types of thinking modes and when to use each one.-Play - how it helps learning and how you can speed up your learning 2x.-How to climb a 'skill tree' to keep your progress efficient and effective .

Sep 15, 2025 • 15min
Integrating Fun for Growth: Jolynn Ledgerwood on Playful Practices ***HIGHLIGHTS*** - Social Skills Coaching
Unlock Productivity with Play: A Conversation with Jolyn LedgerwoodSee the full converstaion at https://youtu.be/VleRbyL5L0QJoin us on Social Skills Coaching as we delve into an insightful conversation with Jolyn Ledgerwood, a consultant, coach, and founder of Elevate Your Talent. Discover how Jolyn transitioned from corporate training to personal coaching, using innovative methodologies like Lego Serious Play and Clifton Strengths. Learn about the importance of play in the workplace, the value of mental health, and practical tips for personal and professional growth. Tune in for an engaging discussion on how embracing playfulness can make you more productive and fulfilled.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 Meet Jolyn Ledgerwood02:10 Discovering Lego Serious Play03:33 The Power of Play in the Workplace05:30 Jolyn's Background and Methodologies10:24 Advocating for Mental Health12:50 Connecting and Coaching with Jolyn14:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sep 9, 2025 • 26min
Pleasure vs. Purpose: Hedonism's Tightrope Walk - Exploring Aristippus & the Ethics of Fulfillment
00:01:09 Aristippus and Ethical Hedonism.00:07:45 How is Ethical Hedonism Different from Hedonism?00:10:37 Reframe the Way You Think about Pleasure00:17:45 Reframe the Way You Think about Pain00:22:52 Here are the main takeaways from today's episode.Philosophies on Self-Discipline: Lessons from History’s Greatest Thinkers on How to Start, Endure, Finish, & Achieve (Live a Disciplined Life Book 7) By Peter HollinsHear it Here - https://bit.ly/philosophieshollinshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B08H1BSFCV8 meditations on goal achievement and getting things done no matter the circumstances.Instead of trying to go it alone or wing it, apply lessons from some of history’s greatest thinkers. Harness thousands of years worth of wisdom, not just your own.Our thoughts determine our actions. Learn from the best and create a self-disciplined mindset.Philosophies on Self-Discipline brings you the condensed knowledge of philosophers, polymaths, scientists, and psychologists. You will gain a working knowledge of many classic texts and theories, and learn how to apply them to your own modern life. There is no better way to become a well-rounded person who is also productive on command, and never prone to procrastinating.Thousands of years of knowledge in one book.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with a multitude of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience.A quintessential guide for procrastinators and couch potatoes.•Plato, Akrasia, and the power of small wins.•Nietzsche and the energy that our willpower runs on.•How to re-imagine hedonism for your own purposes.•Freud, subconscious desires, and getting things done.•The science of behaviorism and what we can learn from rats.•Kaizen, rituals, and focusing on the present.Use tips and techniques that combine psychology with philosophy.No more ifs, buts, or ands. Just simple action and execution.Get started, fight your resistance, and finish your task -- starting with clicking the BUY NOW button.This is the seventh book in the “Live a Disciplined Life” series, as listed below:1.The Science of Self-Discipline: The Willpower, Mental Toughness, and Self-Control to Resist Temptation and Achieve Your Goals2.Finish What You Start: The Art of Following Through, Taking Action, Executing, & Self-Discipline3.Neuro-Discipline: Everyday Neuroscience for Self-Discipline, Focus, and Defeating Your Brain’s Impulsive and Distracted Nature4.Mind Over Matter: The Self-Discipline to Execute Without Excuses, Control Your Impulses, and Keep Going When You Want to Give Up5. Practical Self-Discipline6.Legendary Self-Discipline: Lessons from Mythology and Modern Heroes on Choosing the Right Path Over the Easy Path7. Philosophies on Self-Discipline: Lessons from History’s Greatest Thinkers on How to Start, Endure, Finish, & Achieve.

Sep 6, 2025 • 18min
Unlocking Potential: Mentorship, Coaching, and Personal Growth ***HIGHLIGHTS from Sonya Figueiredo***
Unlocking Deeper Connections & Overcoming Trauma with Sonya FigueiredoSee the full conversation at https://youtu.be/JFLM-8xD07YIn this insightful episode of The Science of Self, host Russell interviews Sonya Figueiredo, founder of Mindful Transitions. Sonya shares her personal journey that led her to start her coaching business, focusing on professional women in the corporate world. She emphasizes the importance of addressing deeper issues, breaking through personal barriers, and fostering genuine connections in all facets of life. Sonya discusses the difference between coaching and therapy, the significance of understanding one's 'why,' and practical tips for self-improvement and daily routines. Learn how to navigate life's challenges and improve your relationships from the inside out.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:22 Sonya's Journey to Mindful Transitions02:26 Understanding Trauma and Coaching04:25 Purpose and Self-Discovery06:32 Self-Improvement Courses and Techniques13:20 Daily Routines and Habits16:13 Final Thoughts and Closing

Sep 5, 2025 • 25min
Are Introverts Destined to Be Less Happy? Could Extroverts' Happiness Be Just a Facade?
00:00:33 Today's featured book from Peter Hollins is The Science of Introverts.00:01:06 For today's episode, we're pulling from the beginning of Chapter 300:03:31 Irish researcher Ipek Kulahci00:07:01 Typically, surveys having to do with personality type00:09:36 Ryan Howell, a psychologist from San Francisco State University, conducted a study00:12:29 Psychologists Wido Oerlemans and Arnold Bakker also conducted a study00:15:32 Take, for example, the story of one Jason Comely, originator of rejection therapy.00:20:47 Brigham Young University researcher Julianne Holt-Lunstad reviewed data00:23:32 Here's the primary takeaway from today's episode.The Science of Introverts: Explore the Personality Spectrum for Self-Discovery, Self-Awareness, & Self-Care. Design a Life That Fits. By Peter HollinsHear it Here - https://adbl.co/3S4Z79whttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L9C77YJ Discover the hidden causes behind your behaviors and habits. Stop trying to impersonate someone you’re not.We use the terms introvert and extrovert constantly. We use them to label ourselves and everyone we know. But what do they really mean? How much of so-called common knowledge is misconceptions and stereotypes?The Science of Introverts will uncover everything you never knew about yourself and others, and will teach you how to take advantage of who you are and capitalize on your unique strengths.Feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.Think of The Science of Introverts as the most actionable textbook you’ve ever come across. It is filled with breakthrough and fascinating studies regarding introversion, extroversion, and personality in general -- and the lessons we can take and use to enrich our lives and feel more comfortable in our unique identities. You will begin a journey of self-discovery and find practical knowledge about yourself.The backbone of the book is a deep dive into the science of personality, with over 30 studies synthesized, including the most recent and up-to-date research on the biology of introversion and personality.Learn self-care and how to strategically manage your social capacity.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He has worked with dozens of individuals to unlock their potential and path towards success. His writing draws on his academic, coaching, and research experience. He’s also a massive introvert – this book is written for introverts by an introvert.Stop feeling pressure or obligated to be someone you’re not .•An analysis of the major personality types and the difference in habits and behaviors they create. Also covers the concept of the HSP.•The scientific basis for introversion and extroversion - and how they affect you.•How to change your personality to be happier. Yes, really.•An action guide for introverts to succeed socially even when they want isolation.•Countless scientific discoveries about how introverts see the world and function differently.Find solitude in our loud world without becoming a social hermit.When you can understand what is pulling you in different directions, you can take charge and design a life that suits your needs, whims, and desires. This goes beyond social situations and into every aspect of your life. Knowing yourself is the key to moving towards a life you want.

Aug 29, 2025 • 13min
Transformative Wellness: From Self-Care to Other Care ***HIGHLIGHTS from Iuri Melo***
Finding Joy through Helping Others: Insights from Iuri Melo on Wellness and PreventionSee the full conversation at https://youtu.be/S8-vJTRqQHwIn this episode, Iuri Melo, a licensed clinical social worker and co-founder of School Pulse, shares valuable insights on improving wellness through 'other care' and proactive prevention. He discusses the impactful journey of creating School Pulse in response to a student suicide crisis in Utah, emphasizing the importance of connection and proactive engagement. The conversation also touches on the significance of maintaining a positive mindset, the power of relationships, and key habits for personal success. Tune in to learn strategies for fostering joy, meaning, and resilience in life.00:00 Introduction to Creating Misery and Wellness00:46 Meet Iuri Melo: Licensed Clinical Social Worker01:30 The Genesis of School Pulse03:18 Proactive Engagement and Support05:10 The Power of Optimism and Relationships08:03 Habits for Success and Well-being11:19 Final Thoughts and Parting WordsHow Proactive Mental Health Strategies Can Transform Lives | Interview with Iuri MeloJoin us in this insightful episode where we talk to Iuri Melo, a licensed clinical social worker and co-founder of School Pulse. Iuri shares his transformative journey from working as a psychotherapist to co-founding a proactive mental health service aimed at improving student wellness. He delves into the importance of shifting from just intervention to proactive care, the role of positive psychology, and how involving students in engaging activities like adventure therapy can significantly improve their mental health. Discover how other-care can be a more effective mood booster than self-care and the unparalleled importance of community and connections in fostering wellbeing.Join us for a lively conversation as Russell Newton sits down with Iuri Melo, a licensed clinical social worker and co-founder of School Pulse, to explore the world of positive psychology, growth mindset, and personal development. We dive into how social skills, charisma, and emotional wellness can transform student success and everyday life.Throughout the episode, we touch on the power of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), the importance of relationships, and how being proactive about mental health and wellness can make a real difference. Iuri shares insights from his experience with adventure therapy and climbing therapy, and we discuss practical ways to build resilience, presence, and likability.We also chat about the influence of thought leaders like Eckhart Tolle (The Power of Now), Viktor Frankl, Stephen Covey (Seven Habits), and Tony Robbins, and how their ideas can inspire self-improvement, leadership, and empowerment. Whether you’re interested in habit stacks, miracle mornings, or just want to boost your productivity and emotional wellness, this episode is packed with evidence-based advice and real-world stories.Tune in for a casual, inspiring discussion that will leave you ready to thrive, not just survive!PositivePsychology #GrowthMindset #CBT #SocialSkills #Charisma #Productivity #Likability #IuriMelo #RussellNewton #SchoolPulse #MentalHealth #EmotionalWellness #StudentSuccess #Therapy #AdventureTherapy #ClimbingTherapy #Proactive #Wellness #Relationships #Presence #ThePowerOfNow #EckhartTolle #ViktorFrankl #StephenCovey #SevenHabits #TonyRobbins #MiracleMorning #HabitStack #Altruism #Resilience #Thriving #PersonalDevelopment #SelfImprovement #Leadership #Empowerment


