

Growth Mindset Psychology: The Science of Self-Improvement
Sam Webster Harris | Growth Mindset Psychology
Most self-help advice is guesswork dressed up as wisdom. We dig into psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science to find what actually changes lives.
WHY LISTEN?
Over 8 million downloads because we answer the questions that matter: How do I build mental strength? What creates lasting motivation? How can I understand my own mind well enough to work with it, not against it?
This podcast is for curious skeptics who want frameworks backed by psychology studies, not Instagram quotes. Whether you're navigating procrastination, building self-discipline, or designing your own philosophy for a life well lived—we explore the hidden psychology behind real change.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
Mental models and simple techniques from cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and ancient wisdom traditions like Stoicism and Buddhism.
Being a human can be confusing, learning about it doesn’t have to be.
We cover everything from emotional intelligence and habit formation to brain health and the nervous system.
WHAT YOU DON’T GET
No pseudoscience. No oversimplified "hacks." No hustle porn.
Just practical insights on mindset improvement, self-development, and human psychology that respect your intelligence and mental health.
THE APPROACH
Instead of telling you what to think, we explore how thinking works. Armed with psychology studies, social science research, and relentless curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of belief change, attitude change, and personal development.
Success is personal. You might want to leverage your neurodiverse strengths, build a business, or simply discover how to be happier. We provide the mental frameworks to pursue your definition of success with mental strength and self-care that fits your life.
YOUR HOST
I'm Sam Webster Harris—a lifelong learner with ADHD and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions. After launching businesses, traveling the world, and nearly dying a few times, I concluded that psychology and science are where real wisdom lives.
This show is my excuse to dive deep into health and fitness research, behavioral psychology, and cool science while helping you build genuine self-discipline and motivation.
PREMIUM
Go ad-free and access exclusive content, AMAs, and our community Discord.
Growth Mindset Premium
PAST SERIES
Previous guests include Olympians, Scientists, Billionaires, and Sam's Mum.
Past series:
— Psychology vs Stoicism
— Time Management for Busy Mortals
— Independence and Knowing Yourself
— Cognitive Biases and Rational Thinking
— Psychology of Connection and Relationships
— Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets
— Addiction and Behaviour Change
— Nervous System Mastery and Polyvagal Theory
— Mental Strength and Self-Discipline
WHY LISTEN?
Over 8 million downloads because we answer the questions that matter: How do I build mental strength? What creates lasting motivation? How can I understand my own mind well enough to work with it, not against it?
This podcast is for curious skeptics who want frameworks backed by psychology studies, not Instagram quotes. Whether you're navigating procrastination, building self-discipline, or designing your own philosophy for a life well lived—we explore the hidden psychology behind real change.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
Mental models and simple techniques from cognitive psychology, positive psychology, and ancient wisdom traditions like Stoicism and Buddhism.
Being a human can be confusing, learning about it doesn’t have to be.
We cover everything from emotional intelligence and habit formation to brain health and the nervous system.
WHAT YOU DON’T GET
No pseudoscience. No oversimplified "hacks." No hustle porn.
Just practical insights on mindset improvement, self-development, and human psychology that respect your intelligence and mental health.
THE APPROACH
Instead of telling you what to think, we explore how thinking works. Armed with psychology studies, social science research, and relentless curiosity, we uncover the mechanics of belief change, attitude change, and personal development.
Success is personal. You might want to leverage your neurodiverse strengths, build a business, or simply discover how to be happier. We provide the mental frameworks to pursue your definition of success with mental strength and self-care that fits your life.
YOUR HOST
I'm Sam Webster Harris—a lifelong learner with ADHD and an obsession with finding answers to hard questions. After launching businesses, traveling the world, and nearly dying a few times, I concluded that psychology and science are where real wisdom lives.
This show is my excuse to dive deep into health and fitness research, behavioral psychology, and cool science while helping you build genuine self-discipline and motivation.
PREMIUM
Go ad-free and access exclusive content, AMAs, and our community Discord.
Growth Mindset Premium
PAST SERIES
Previous guests include Olympians, Scientists, Billionaires, and Sam's Mum.
Past series:
— Psychology vs Stoicism
— Time Management for Busy Mortals
— Independence and Knowing Yourself
— Cognitive Biases and Rational Thinking
— Psychology of Connection and Relationships
— Carol Dweck and the Multiverse of Mindsets
— Addiction and Behaviour Change
— Nervous System Mastery and Polyvagal Theory
— Mental Strength and Self-Discipline
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 24, 2024 • 24min
The Stoics Guide to Freedom: Mastering Life with Epictetus
Explore the teachings of Epictetus and their relevance in modern psychology. Discover the philosophy of focusing on what's within our control, finding contentment in simplicity, handling insults, and accepting what is outside of our control for happiness and growth.

Jan 22, 2024 • 24min
Old Secrets to Calm, Purposeful Progress
This podcast explores the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world and embracing depth and meaningful work over instant gratification. It discusses the power of long-term commitment and effort in achieving goals, the illusion of rapid movement created by social media, and the impact of increased screen time on adults' focus and productivity.

Jan 19, 2024 • 33min
24 Stoic Rules To Change Your Life
Explore the Stoic mindset for self-improvement in 2024. Learn about embracing change, practicing gratitude, forgiveness, and overcoming negativity. Discover the importance of seeing the good in people and adopting a growth mindset for inner strength.

4 snips
Jan 16, 2024 • 40min
How to Build Intelligence and Wisdom
Learn how IQ is not the only determinant of success, discover the components of complete intelligence, and get tips on diversifying learning, adopting a growth mindset, and leveraging emotional intelligence. Reflect on the past year, make choices without regret, become a lifelong learner, and develop the mental strength to create the life you want.

Jan 12, 2024 • 31min
Engineer Unstoppable Motivation and Resilience
Learn how to build unstoppable motivation and resilience with scientifically proven tactics. Discover different types of motivation and how to tap into them. Avoid burnout and foster a sense of purpose by aligning actions with personal values.

Jan 9, 2024 • 30min
7 Habits of Highly Miserable People
Learn about the habits that bring unhappiness and how to create happiness. Explore Mott and Bailey argument styles, lying to ourselves, and the habit of procrastination. Discover the negative impact of social isolation and the importance of meaningful relationships. Understand the negative impact of social media on people's lives.

Jan 5, 2024 • 21min
Be More Yourself in 2024
Explore how your physical environment impacts mindset, creativity, and success. Surround yourself with positive and motivated individuals. Be aware of toxic traits and surround yourself with inspiring and challenging individuals. Embrace unconventional perspectives for personal growth. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to be true to yourself.

Jan 2, 2024 • 27min
Meditations of Marcus Aurelius: Timeless Wisdom for Better Days
Explore powerful ancient wisdom from Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' for self-improvement. Learn about anger management, controlling your mind, embracing failure, changing opinions, and taking action to improve your life. Discover stoic techniques and practical lessons from one of history's greatest philosophers.

5 snips
Dec 29, 2023 • 57min
10 Golden Rules for Habit Formation
Discover the science-backed secrets to forming habits that stick. Learn the importance of aligning expectations with desires for successful habit execution. Explore the first two rules for habit formation: starting with why and making the habit obvious. Prioritize consistency over intensity for effective habit formation. Emphasize self-compassion and mindfulness in habit formation, avoiding overwhelm. Reflect on personal growth in relationships and finances through thoughtful choices.

Dec 22, 2023 • 38min
Walls of Perception: See Reality Hidden Behind Ego Blind Spots, Innate Biases & Terrible Logic
Explore the psychology behind ego blind spots, biases, and terrible logic in perceiving reality. Learn how emphasizing similarities over differences can build bridges and lead with love. Discover the harmful effects of overlooking similarities and the power of empathy. Dive into topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, challenging assumptions, and seeking positive reviews. Open your mind and heart to unite in our basic desires and capabilities.


