

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

Jul 26, 2025 • 48min
Cultivating Success: Elliot Phillips on Finding Opportunities
Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success: Insights with Elliot Phillips | The Science of Self PodcastIn this episode of The Science of Self podcast, host Russell welcomes Elliot Phillips, a former PE teacher turned successful entrepreneur, author, and business coach. Elliot shares his journey from teaching to launching his own business helping teachers build online tutoring enterprises. Elliot emphasizes the importance of self-improvement, surrounding oneself with high achievers, and staying disciplined with daily routines. They discuss the impact of mentorship, the value of investing in learning, and effective habits for success. This episode is packed with valuable advice and practical tips for anyone looking to elevate their personal and professional life.00:00 The Power of Associations00:55 Welcome to The Science of Self01:01 Meet Elliot Phillips: Entrepreneur and Author01:18 The Journey from Teaching to Entrepreneurship02:48 The Importance of Self-Improvement and Masterminds04:42 The Influence of Mentors and Books08:19 Overcoming Discomfort for Success15:37 Elliot's Early Entrepreneurial Ventures23:42 The Teacher Project: Origins and Insights24:46 The Teacher Fit Project: Origins and Challenges26:23 Pivoting to Online Education During the Pandemic27:11 The Importance of Delegation and Surrounding Yourself with the Right People29:35 The Role of Luck and Readiness in Success31:14 Book Recommendations and Their Impact35:44 Influential People and Life Decisions37:11 Cultural Reflections: Comparing Cities42:59 Daily Habits and Final Advice46:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts#Entrepreneurship, #SelfImprovement, #BusinessCoaching, #OnlineEducation, #TeacherEntrepreneur, #Mentorship, #SuccessHabits, #PersonalDevelopment, #BusinessGrowth, #Podcast, #ElliotPhillips, #TheScienceOfSelfPodcast, #Russell, #PETeacher, #OnlineTutoring, #BusinessCoach, #Author, #SelfDiscipline, #DailyRoutines, #MastermindGroups, #InvestingInLearning, #Delegation, #TheTeacherProject, #PandemicPivot, #LuckAndReadiness, #BookRecommendations, #InfluentialPeople, #LifeDecisions, #ComfortZone, #SuccessTips, #PracticalAdvice, #ProfessionalDevelopment

Jul 23, 2025 • 19min
Mastering Skills with Da Vinci: A Guide to Polymath Thinking
00:06:01 Cultivating Intense da Vincian Curiosity 00:10:40 Michael Gelb’s book How to Think Like a Da Vinci00:13:45 The Right Attitude00:14:07 Idea 1: Learning never ends 00:14:52 Idea 2: Test out your theories in the real world 00:15:33 Idea 3: Embrace the unknown 00:16:48 Idea 4: Be humble 00:18:23 Here are the primary takeaways Leonardo da Vinci’s Mental Models: Secrets of the World’s Most Famous Polymath (Learning how to Learn Book 26)By Peter HollinsHear it Here - https://adbl.co/4egDpJbhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVX1T4HWDiscover the extraordinary mind of Leonardo da Vinci, a man who transcended boundaries and left an indelible mark on history. In this episode, we dive into Peter Hollins' insightful book, exploring the mental models that fueled da Vinci's genius. Poverty-stricken origins didn't deter him; instead, they fueled his relentless pursuit of knowledge. Chapter 2 reveals the secrets to his eternal learning: an insatiable curiosity that embraced the unknown and a humble attitude towards life's endless lessons. Join us as we uncover da Vinci's approach to mastering any skill or field—from art to engineering. Learn how he cultivated an open mind, constantly testing theories in the real world and ensuring his learning was never confined to books alone. --Gain insight into one of history's greatest minds and discover how you too can embrace a polymathic mindset. Click on the link provided in the description for a direct path to this enlightening book and start your journey towards intellectual prowess! #LeonardoDaVinci #Polymath #MentalModels #InfiniteLearning #GeniusMindset Remember, learning has no end, so keep an open mind and explore the secrets of the world's most famous polymath. Hear it Here: httpsadbl.co4egDpJb

Jul 21, 2025 • 20min
Navigating Life with ADHD: Rick Culleton on Business, Sobriety, and Happiness - Voice over Work - An Audiobook Sampler
Discovering Joy and Success: Rick Culleton's Journey Through Entrepreneurship and MindfulnessSee the full conversation at https://youtu.be/WzjmJkw1QywJoin host Russell in this episode of Social Skills Coaching as he welcomes Rick Culleton, an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and mindfulness advocate. Rick shares his inspirational journey overcoming ADHD, experiencing accidental sobriety, and finding true happiness through mindfulness practices. Learn about Rick's diverse business ventures, the importance of a strong team, and his unique 'morning stack' routine that includes techno fasting and meditation. Rick also highlights the impact of self-motivation, continuous self-improvement, and the power of choice in shaping one's future.00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on Drinking00:53 Welcome and Guest Introduction01:05 Rick's Book and ADHD Journey02:16 Entrepreneurial Ventures04:34 Building and Maintaining a Strong Team06:27 Accidental Sobriety and Overcoming Anxiety11:22 Daily Routines and Morning Stack18:32 Reflections on Life and Learning19:11 Recommended Books and Final Thoughts#SocialSkillsCoaching #RickCulleton #Entrepreneurship #ADHD #Mindfulness #Happiness #Sobriety #Meditation #MorningRoutine #MorningStack #ColdPlunge #Fitness #Recovery #TechnoFasting #SleepOptimization #MartialArts #PersonalGrowth #SuccessMindset #Leadership #Productivity #WellnessJourney

Jul 18, 2025 • 17min
Embracing the Polymathic Mindset
00:02:36 What we can learn from their approach00:04:29 Adaptable and Open00:15:05 TakeawaysPolymath: Master Multiple Disciplines, Learn New Skills, Think Flexibly, and Become Extraordinary Autodidact (Learning how to Learn Book 9) By Peter HollinsHear it Here - https://bit.ly/polymathhollinshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B087BNHHHCAre you ready to expand your horizons and become an extraordinary polymath? In this episode, we dive into Chapter 2 of Peter Hollins' insightful book, "Polymath Master: Multiple Disciplines, Learn New Skills, Think Flexibly." Discover how adopting a polymathic mindset can unlock a world of opportunities. Say goodbye to the rigid hammer and hello to an entire woodshop! Learn to think beyond conventional boundaries and embrace adaptability. By cultivating an open mind, you'll gain expertise that pays exponentially. Join us as we explore the art of becoming multifaceted and discover why polymathy is the key to uniqueness and irreplaceability in today's competitive world. Don't miss out on this eye-opening journey towards self-improvement! Click the link [Hear it Here](https://bit.ly/polymath-hollins) to learn more about Peter Hollins' transformative guide, "Polymath Master." Get ready to embrace your full potential and become an expert in multiple disciplines!

Jul 13, 2025 • 54min
Building Authentic Connections Through Social Media with Robin Nathaniel
Welcome back to The Science of Self, where we improve your life from the inside out! In this episode, we feature Robin Nathaniel, a social media strategist, author, and TEDx speaker. Robin shares his unique approach to building genuine human connections online, merging his background in social media with his passion for intentional communication. Discover his SYNC method for social media, and how he applies the principles of create, connect, and contribute to his daily life. Gain insights into his personal journey, from his early experiences in New York City to his music career in Europe, and how his faith and family guide his purpose. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on living intentionally and improving your life through deeper connections.00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction00:24 Robin's Personal and Professional Background02:24 The Evolution of Social Media04:53 Understanding TEDx and Its Impact06:46 Robin's Music Career Journey09:25 Moving from New York to Atlanta20:13 The Three Cs: Connect, Create, Contribute26:45 Connecting with a Higher Power27:49 The Book That Changed My Perspective29:25 Aligning Online Presence with Deeper Purpose30:43 Finding Your North Star31:58 The Cave and the Tunnel Analogy34:08 The Role of Religion in Life44:15 Daily Habits for a Purposeful Life49:04 Final Thoughts and Recommendations #RobinNathaniel #Socialmediastrategy #Personalgrowth #Musicindustry #Authenticconnection #TEDxspeaker #Creatingconnections #Digitalcommunication #Resilience #"SocialMediaSYNC" #Publicspeaking #Inspiration #Careertransition #Storytelling #Intentionalcommunication #ConnectCreateContribute #Humanconnection #Socialmediaexpert #Author #Mindfulcommunication #Socialmediatips #Thoughtleadership #Professionaldevelopment #Entrepreneurship

Jul 3, 2025 • 39min
"Master the Art of Teaching: Unlocking Science-Based Methods for Effective Education"
00:04:30 Five Key Pedagogical Approaches00:15:11 The Brain’s Strengths and Limitations00:27:50 Scaffolding: the Power of Baby Steps00:34:38 TakeawaysHow to Teach Anything: Break Down Complex Topics and Explain with Clarity, While Keeping Engagement and Motivation (Learning how to Learn Book 13) By Peter HollinsHear it Here - https://bit.ly/TeachKidsHollinshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TVXZYCPScience-based methods for the most comprehension and retention. Teach more in less time.There is a reason that education, teaching, and pedagogy are all areas of intense research and study. They are complicated! But just because you don’t have the fanciest PhDs or certifications, doesn’t mean that you can’t teach just as effectively. Learn how in this book.For teachers, parents, professors, tutors, and even just friends.How to Teach Anything takes what academics know about education and pedagogy, and translates it all into real-world skills and techniques. The learning brain works is very predictable ways, and we can use this to our advantage. Whether you are a student, tutor, professor, teacher, or even TA, understand how information takes hold and becomes useful.Learn how to teach, and you also learn how to learn.How to instill a mindset of curiosity, critical thinking, and discovery.Peter Hollins has studied psychology and peak human performance for over a dozen years and is a bestselling author. He is one of the foremost authors on self-education and learning. 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.Ensure academic success and keep students motivated and coming back for more.•What the science of education has taught us about teaching.•How a simple progression of thinking activities will cement learning.•How Greek philosophers thought and why it matters in teaching.•Keeping motivation and engagement, even through the tough times.•How to deliver feedback effectively and gently.•How to create an environment of safety and taking risks.Teaching is the ability to affect lives. Increase your teaching skills, and you will increase your personal impact.Teaching is a skill used in all walks of life. It’s actually the ability to clearly communicate and disseminate information. And if you want to help anyone, that is what you will be doing: family members, spouses, co-workers, bosses, children, and more. .

Jun 28, 2025 • 38min
Rediscovering Faith and Legacy: A Conversation with Mark Connor
In this episode of 'The Science of Self,' we welcome Mark Connor from St. Paul, Minnesota, a former competitive boxer turned boxing trainer and writer. Mark introduces his book, 'It's About Time: Millions of Copies Sold for Dad,' an autobiographical saga interwoven with poetry that explores his life, his relationship with his late father, and his spiritual journey. Mark discusses his re-embrace of his Catholic faith, the influence of his Irish heritage, and his deep connection with the Native American community through his work at a youth shelter. He also touches on the discipline and routine required in both writing and boxing, and the importance of taking the first step to achieve one's goals. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on faith, discipline, and the pursuit of personal excellence.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:17 Mark Connor's Background and Book Overview01:43 Faith and Personal Journey01:58 Involvement with Native American Community06:47 Cultural and Spiritual Reflections15:28 Reading from the Book32:56 Writing and Discipline37:36 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIt's About Time (Millions of Copies Sold for Dad) is a saga wrapped around a package of poems, guarded by Angels. With a narrative style that reads like a novel, contains a collection of poetry, and shares an autobiography, Mark Connor guides us through a journey of love, family, and life that is ours as much as his own, peaking at the point of merger of difference and unity. Following him from memory to memory, we feel the eyes upon us, defeat the empire of fear, embrace the kingdom of love, and find ten minutes a day to be grateful. All the while, we celebrate the city of Saint Paul (with a friendly nod to Minneapolis), experience Irish influence in neighborhood life, rooted in Catholic cohesion, embraced by indigenous America in the medicine wheel. We box the perfect metaphor with future world champions, love beauty in a moment of ambivalence, work on a fishing boat in Southeast Alaska, comfort a child in an American Indian shelter for kids, and guard American Indian buildings, with guns, in riots. Through it all, we honor Dad, mourning his death and remembering his love, sharing a story written for America, valuing fatherhood, defending family, encouraging marriage, and providing hope.Mark Connor is a Literary Pugilist from Saint Paul, Minnesota. A lifelong boxer and Boxing Trainer, he runs a service called, Fighting Chance/Boxing For Life. His writing about Boxing, as well as his training services, can be found at https: //BoxersAndWritersMagazine.com. He writes fiction, poetry, and journalism. He is the 2022 Boxing inductee to the Mancini's St. Paul Sports Hall of Fame. He attended the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Regis University in Denver, Colorado, and graduated with a BA in English from the University of Minnesota. He has written and published many articles about Boxing, Irish culture, and people and events related to Irish freedom. He has also published local news and features on business, politics, and current affairs in Minnesota and the U.S. His Substack newsletter, Irish, Catholic, Punchdrunk in Saint Paul, can be found at: https: //markconnoricpunchdrunk.substack.com.

Jun 26, 2025 • 40min
Journeys of Intention: Zach Smith's Transformative Travel Ventures
Travel Transformation: Interview with Zach Smith from Anywhere.comWelcome back to 'The Science of Self'! In this episode, Russell speaks with Zach Smith, the founder and CEO of Anywhere.com. Zach shares his journey from a serendipitous trip to Oaxaca, Mexico that inspired a transformative travel business, to organically growing Anywhere.com into a network that connects travelers with enriching cultural experiences. Tune in as Zach discusses the impact of intentions, travel as a tool for personal transformation, and his unique perspective on travel that goes beyond mere transactions. Don't miss this insightful conversation on living mindfully and making meaningful choices in travel and life.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:14 Zach Smith's Journey to Founding Anywhere.com01:28 The Birth of Anywhere.com07:50 Serendipity and Intentions in Life12:47 Personal Reflections and Family Influence27:01 Travel as a Tool for Transformation34:41 Daily Habits and Personal Success37:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 23, 2025 • 25min
Socrates’ Endless Questions
00:00:17 Today's featured book is Think Like a Genius00:10:34 There are six types of Socratic questions00:16:36 The Socratic method as a thinking technique00:19:13 Turning the questions on ourselves00:22:38 TakeawaysThink Like a Genius: How to Go Outside the Box, Analyze Deeply, Creatively Solve Problems, and Innovate (Mental Models for Better Living Book 5)By: Peter Hollins Hear it Here - http://bit.ly/GeniusHollinshttps://www.amazon.com/Think-Like-Genius-Creatively-Problems/dp/1647432529## Unlocking Genius: Exploring Socrates' Infinite Inquiry with Peter Hollins Dive deep into the timeless wisdom of Socrates, as we uncover the secrets to genius-level thinking in this captivating episode. Join us as we explore Chapter 3 of "Think Like a Genius" by renowned author and psychologist, Peter Hollins. Learn how Socrates revolutionized critical thinking through his unique method of inquiry, known as the Socratic Method. Discover the power of applied curiosity and turning questions inward to unlock your full intellectual potential.

Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 3min
Unleashing Your Inner Billionaire with Debbie Dobbins
In this episode of 'The Science of Self,' host introduces Debbie Dobbins, the author of 'Your Inner Billionaire.' Debbie explains her philosophy of inner success, emphasizing the importance of mindset, emotions, and gratitude in achieving personal freedom and abundance. She shares her journey through significant life challenges, including a cancer diagnosis, and how these experiences helped her develop a deeper appreciation for holistic wellbeing. Debbie discusses the concepts of the inner billionaire, the holistic approach to success, the science behind gratitude, and the power of mindset changes and neuroplasticity. She also explores the practical application of binaural beats in meditation and mindfulness. The conversation is rich with insights about personal growth, overcoming limiting beliefs, and fostering a higher vibrational frequency through gratitude and generosity.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:33 Debbie Dobbins: The Queen of Magic01:34 Awakening Your Inner Billionaire04:36 The Power of Gratitude09:25 Mindfulness and Meditation24:38 Understanding Frequencies and Vibrations30:38 Understanding Your Money Story30:57 The Science of Brainwave Patterns31:34 Impact of Early Experiences on Beliefs33:42 Introduction to Binaural Beats35:37 Creating Your Own Binaural Beats38:42 Spirituality vs. Religion43:11 The Power of Stories and Beliefs48:16 Personal Journey and Manifestation52:15 Building Abundance and Gratitude56:15 Practical Tips for Abundance01:01:20 Final Thoughts and Recommendations


