Shows
No Small Endeavor with Lee C. CampUnabridged Interview: Shankar VedantamThis is our unabridged interview with Shankar Vedantam.
We all like to believe that we live our lives rationally, deliberately, and consciously. But what if our conscious decision-making is just the tip of the iceberg?
“ I feel like I have a full picture of what's happening inside my own mind,” says Shankar Vedantam. But it turns out “there is a large portion of our mind that's working outside of our conscious awareness.”
Shankar founded Hidden Brain Media in order to teach people what science has uncovered about our brains. In this episo...
2026-04-2455 min
No Small Endeavor with Lee C. CampShankar Vedantam: Hidden Brain (Best of NSE)We all like to believe that we live our lives rationally, deliberately, and consciously. But what if our conscious decision-making is just the tip of the iceberg?
“ I feel like I have a full picture of what's happening inside my own mind,” says Shankar Vedantam. But it turns out “there is a large portion of our mind that's working outside of our conscious awareness.”
Shankar founded Hidden Brain Media in order to teach people what science has uncovered about our brains. In this episode, he discusses why we’re not as autonomous as we think we are, and...
2026-04-2052 min
10% Happier with Dan HarrisHandling Difficult People, Healing Breakups, and the Science of Talking to Strangers | Shankar VedantamPractical strategies for navigating difficult relationships and building new connections. Shankar Vedantam is host of the Hidden Brain podcast and radio show, where he explores the hidden patterns that drive human behavior. He is the author of the books, The Hidden Brain: How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Wage Wars, Control Markets and Save Our Lives, and Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self- Deceiving Brain. In this episode we talk about: How to stop trying to change your partner Useful tools for overcoming conflict The challenging practice of...
2026-03-2356 min
Hidden BrainYuck! The Science of DisgustDisgust is a strong emotion, one designed by evolution to protect us from danger and diseases. But disgust also spills into other areas of our lives, influencing our morals, our intuitions about right and wrong, even our politics. We talk with psychologist David Pizarro about how disgust is used to persuade and divide us, and why it remains such a potent force in public life today. Then, in our latest installment of “Your Questions Answered,” Huggy Rao returns to respond to listeners’ thoughts and questions about why big ideas fail.
There's still time to join Shankar at one of...
2026-03-091h 37
Hidden BrainThe Secret of CharismaCharismatic leaders can inspire devotion and give people a powerful sense of meaning. They can also make us vulnerable. This week, we explore how figures across history have gained followers by offering clarity in moments of uncertainty — and why that clarity can come at a cost. Historian Molly Worthen explains how to recognize the spell of charisma, and why questioning it is essential to a healthy society. Then, on Your Questions Answered, Antonio Pascual-Leone returns to respond to listeners' thoughts and questions about moving on after a breakup.
Do you have personal stories about being drawn in by...
2026-03-021h 34
Hidden BrainDo You Feel Invisible?What does it do to a person to feel overlooked? This week, psychologist Gordon Flett examines how the absence of “mattering” can fuel loneliness, depression, and even violence. He outlines how feeling valued serves as a psychological buffer, and how simple gestures can rebuild a sense of meaning in ourselves and others. Then, in the second half of the show, listeners share their thoughts on finding healing in nature. Psychologist Marc Berman returns for the latest installment of our series "Your Questions Answered."
Today's episode touches on topics related to loneliness, depression, and suicide. If you or someo...
2026-02-231h 27
Hidden BrainWhy You're Smarter Than You ThinkFrom the time we're schoolchildren, we're ranked and sorted based on how smart we are. But what if our assumptions about intelligence limit our potential? This week, we revisit a favorite 2022 conversation with cognitive scientist Scott Barry Kaufman, who proposes a more expansive notion of what it means to be "smart." Then, in the latest installment of Your Questions Answered, psychologist James Cordova answers listener questions on accepting our romantic partners as they are.Our next stops on Hidden Brain’s live tour are just weeks away! Join Shankar for an evening of science and storytelling in Ph...
2026-02-161h 34
Hidden BrainComing CleanLast week, we talked with psychologist Leslie John about the costs of keeping secrets. Today, Leslie returns with a look at the psychological power of self-disclosure. She says the moments of oversharing that we often consider "TMI" can actually strengthen our relationships. Then, in the second half of the show, listeners share their thoughts and questions about the expectations we put on modern marriages. Psychologist Eli Finkel returns for the latest installment of our series "Your Questions Answered." Our next stops on Hidden Brain’s live tour are just weeks away! Join Shankar for an evening of sci...
2026-02-091h 37
Hidden BrainKeeping SecretsWe all carry secrets, from harmless omissions to life-changing truths. But secrecy isn’t neutral: hiding takes mental work and can harm our health and relationships. In this week’s show, and in our episode next week, psychologist Leslie John explores the costs of concealment — and how opening up can give us more mental space and deepen our connections.After you listen to today's episode, check out our Hidden Brain+ conversation called "When to Hide the Truth." In that episode, we talk with Leslie about when and where it may be best to withhold information. If you're not yet...
2026-02-0250 min
Hidden BrainThe Power of Family StoriesThere’s a tradition around many Thanksgiving dinner tables that’s as consistent as pumpkin pie: the family stories that get told year after year. Sometimes these stories are funny; sometimes they make us roll our eyes. No matter how we feel about them, we rarely pause to consider how these stories shape who we are and how we view the world. This week, we revisit a favorite 2024 conversation about family storytelling with psychologist Robyn Fivush. Then, in a new installment of "Your Questions Answered," Massimo Pigliucci answers listener questions about Stoicism, and why this ancient philosophy continues to reso...
2025-11-171h 37
Hidden BrainWhy Following Your Dreams Isn't EnoughEntrepreneurs typically have no shortage of passion, heart, and vision. But at Stanford University, Huggy Rao says there are other elements that may matter more when it comes to whether their projects succeed or fail. This week, we'll examine how this problem shapes not just individual lives, but organizations and businesses, and even public policy. Then, in the latest installment of "Your Questions Answered," sociologist Robb Willer answers listener questions about how to navigate political differences with the people in your life. The Los Angeles stop on our live tour is almost here! Join Shankar November 22 as he...
2025-11-101h 30
Central Valley DailyOct. 27: Exploring Our Own ‘Hidden Brain’ With The Writer Shankar VedantamThe beloved radio show and podcast “Hidden Brain” is celebrating its 10th anniversary. On today’s episode, we speak directly with the host, Shankar Vedantam, about why the show is so successful and needed in today’s world. Vedantam also tells us what is next for the show.
2025-10-2713 min
Going PublicGoing Public: Host Shankar Vedantam Reflects on 10 Years of Hidden BrainKRCU's Dan Woods spoke with Hidden Brain host Shankar Vedantam as the show celebrates 10 years on the air.
2025-10-2509 min
Midday'Hidden Brain' podcaster Shankar Vedantam on a decade probing the mysteries of the human psycheTom's first guest today is Shankar Vedantam, the creator and host of Hidden Brain, a weekly podcast and radio show heard every Sunday afternoon at 2:00 here on WYPR.
Shankar is coming to the Lyric Theater in Baltimore Saturday night with his Hidden Brain Perceptions Tour, a live event that's traveling cross country to celebrate ten years of this award-winning program.
The animating question since the inception of Hidden Brain has been: Are there parts of our minds that are hidden from us?
Shankar joins Tom on Zoom from Washington, DC, to share some of the insights he's gained from a...
2025-10-1038 min
Hidden BrainLove 2.0: How to Fix Your Marriage, Part 2When things go wrong in our relationships, we often try to change the way our partners behave. But usually, trying to fix a person only makes things worse. Last week, we talked to psychologist James Cordova about why this tendency can be so damaging, and what to do instead. This week, we explore another difficult but effective way to strengthen our relationships. Then, on Your Questions Answered, we bring back researcher Victor Strecher, who studies purpose. Vic spoke with us in June about the death of his daughter, and how it changed his own outlook on purpose. That conversation...
2025-10-061h 44
Hidden BrainLove 2.0: How to Fix Your Marriage, Part 1Many love stories end when the characters are still in the heady, euphoric early stages of a relationship. But what comes after that intoxicating first phase of love is over? Today, we kick off a new series on the challenges specific to long-term relationships. We'll talk with psychologist James Cordova about some of the common difficulties many couples face. We'll also look at a solution that scientific research suggests might actually work. Then, we'll bring you the latest installment of our segment Your Questions Answered. Researcher Jon Jachimowicz returns to respond to listeners' thoughts about the pursuit of passions.
2025-09-291h 4110% Happier with Dan HarrisHow Lying To Yourself (A Little) Can Improve Your Relationships and Make the World Feel Less Insane | Shankar VedantamAnyone with a passing familiarity with Buddhism will know that "delusion" is rarely, if ever, mentioned in a positive way. In fact, the Buddha included delusion (aka: confusion about the way things really are) on his list of "the three poisons." The whole point of meditation, per the Buddha, is to uproot delusion -- along with greed and hatred. Only then can you be enlightened. My guest today is here to valiantly make the case that delusion -- or self-deception -- has an upside. Many upsides, in fact. While he concedes that self-deception can, of course, be...
2025-09-291h 11
TED Talks Daily(#2) Elise’s Top Ten: You don't actually know what your future self wants | Shankar Vedantam"You are constantly becoming a new person," says journalist Shankar Vedantam. In a talk full of beautiful storytelling, he explains the profound impact of something he calls the "illusion of continuity" -- the belief that our future selves will share the same views, perspectives and hopes as our current selves -- and shows how we can more proactively craft the people we are to become.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyouTEDSports: ted.com/sportsTEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-viennaT...
2025-09-2016 min
Hidden BrainThe Best Years of Your LifeAging isn’t just a biological process. Our outlooks and emotions also change as we age, often in ways that boost our well-being. This week, we revisit a favorite conversation with psychologist Laura Carstensen, who helps us unpack the science behind this surprising finding, and shares what all of us can learn from older people. Then, as part of our ongoing series "Your Questions Answered," we revisit our follow-up chat with Laura, who responds to listeners' thoughts and questions and shares more of her research on what it means to live well as we age.Come see Sh...
2025-08-111h 19
Hidden BrainRadical KindnessWhy do some people risk their own lives to help another person, or give away their fortunes for the benefit of strangers? This week, we talk with psychologist and neuroscientist Abigail Marsh, who studies the science of altruism. We'll explore what's known about the brains of people who perform acts of remarkable selflessness, and how the rest of us can learn to be more like them. Do you have follow-up questions, comments, or stories about altruism and generosity after listening to this episode? If you'd be comfortable sharing with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice m...
2025-08-041h 04
Hidden BrainYou 2.0: Change Your Story, Change Your LifeWe all tell stories about ourselves, often without realizing we’re doing so. How we frame those stories can profoundly shape our lives. In our latest You 2.0 episode, we bring you a favorite conversation with psychologist Jonathan Adler. He shares how to tell our stories in ways that enhance our wellbeing. Then, Max Bazerman answers your questions about the science of negotiation.Do you have follow-up questions or ideas that you’d like to share after listening to our conversation with Jonathan Adler? How do you tell the story of your life, and how does that shape the w...
2025-07-281h 17
Hidden BrainYou 2.0: The Passion PillYou’ve probably heard the saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” The idea is that pursuing your passion will feel invigorating — almost magical. But passions can easily wane over time. This week, behavioral scientist Jon Jachimowicz looks at how to keep our passions alive, and how to channel old passions into new pursuits.Do you have follow-up questions for Jon Jachimowicz, or ideas that you'd like to share after listening to this episode? If you'd be willing to share them with the Hidden Brain audience, please record a voice memo...
2025-07-0749 min
Hidden BrainYou 2.0: What Is Your Life For?What should you do with your life? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. But there are scientifically-tested methods that can help you to feel more in harmony with yourself and the world. This week, and in a companion conversation for Hidden Brain+, researcher Victor Strecher explores the science of creating a life full of meaning. It's the kickoff to our annual You 2.0 series, which this year will focus on purpose and passion. If you’ve reached the midpoint of the year and you’re feeling adrift, alone, or burned out, this series is for you. Do you h...
2025-06-301h 03
Hidden BrainWin Hearts, Then Minds + Your Questions Answered on Identity and "Covering"There’s a saying that’s attributed to the Dalai Lama: in the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher. It’s a nice idea. But when people don’t share our values, it’s hard for us to tolerate theirs. This week, we bring you a favorite episode with sociologist Robb Willer. We discuss the common mistakes we make in trying to persuade others of our point of view — and how to break out of our echo chambers. Then, Kenji Yoshino answers your questions about how we hide our true selves.In this week’s show, y...
2025-06-231h 25
Hidden BrainDoing it the Hard WayLearning to play a musical instrument is hard. So is trying to run a marathon, writing a term paper, and caring for a sick child. These things involve frustration, pain, and disappointment — yet we do them anyway. This week, in part two of our look at the allure of suffering, psychologist Michael Inzlicht explains what we get from doing things that are difficult, and why the things we think will make us happy often do not.Hidden Brain is hitting the road this summer! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from th...
2025-06-1650 min
Hidden BrainOuch! That Feels GreatWe generally think of pain as something to be avoided. But psychologist Paul Bloom says that as much as we're wired to avoid suffering, we also seek it out. This week, we begin a two-part mini series about the curious pleasure we take in certain forms of pain.Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from the first decade of the show. For more info and tickets, go to https://hiddenbrain.org/tour/. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See p...
2025-06-0951 min
Hidden BrainThe Price of RevengeRevenge often feels sweet, but what price do we pay for seeking it out? Researcher James Kimmel, Jr. proposes a radical theory: our desire for vengeance operates like an addiction in the brain. This week, how “revenge addiction” plays out in our everyday lives — and on a global scale. Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join us as Shankar shares seven key insights he's learned from the show over the past decade. To see if we're coming to your city, and to purchase tickets, go to hiddenbrain.org/tour. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWi...
2025-06-021h 06
Hidden BrainDo I Know You? (A Hidden Brain-Revisionist History special on facial recognition)Have you ever encountered someone who clearly knows you, but you have no idea who they are? This week, we feature a classic Hidden Brain episode about people on opposite ends of the facial recognition spectrum. Then, in the second part of the show, we bring you another perspective on facial recognition from the Revisionist History podcast. Host Malcolm Gladwell struggles with identifying faces, while producer Lucie Sullivan is exceptional at it.Hidden Brain is about to kickoff a nationwide tour! Join Shankar as he shares seven key insights from the first decade of the show. To...
2025-05-2656 min
Hidden BrainHow Much Do We Really Know?You probably know someone who thinks they know more about something than they really do. But you could never be described that way . . . could you? This week, cognitive scientist Phil Fernbach explains the "illusion of knowledge" — the fact that we think we understand the world in much greater detail than we actually do. He'll explore why this happens, and how to close the gap between what we know and what we think we know. Hidden Brain is about to go on tour! Join Shankar in a city near you as he shares key insights from the first dec...
2025-05-1955 min
Hidden BrainForget About It!Forgetting something — whether it's a colleague's name or where we put our keys — can be deeply frustrating. This week, psychologist Ciara Greene helps us explore the science of forgetting. We look at why our minds hold on to some memories for a lifetime, but discard others within seconds. And we grapple with a question many people ask themselves: Is my forgetfulness a sign that something is wrong with me?In this episode, you'll learn about: *The neurological underpinnings of memory*Why forgetting is a core part of how our minds work *Why th...
2025-05-1248 min
Hidden BrainHow to Harness Your FeelingsDo you feel like you control your emotions, or do your emotions control you? What scientists call "emotion regulation" turns out to be one of the most important life skills we can possess. It's essential in dealing with setbacks, in balancing risks and rewards, and in maintaining successful relationships. This week, psychologist Ethan Kross explores the growing and fascinating science of managing our emotions. He explains why our feelings so often go astray, and shares insights into how to reel them back in.In this episode, you'll learn:*How to coach yourself through emotionally intense...
2025-05-051h 05
Hidden BrainRelationships 2.0: Keeping Love AliveThere's no magic potion that can make someone adore you. But there are things you can do to promote a deep and enduring connection — and even feelings of passion — between yourself and your partner. In the final chapter of our Relationships 2.0 series, psychologist Arthur Aron shares some techniques for falling and staying in love. In today's conversation, we explore:*The assumption that love fades over time.*The effects of daily routine on romantic relationships.*What our choice in a romantic partners says about us*How successful long-term couples keep love...
2025-04-2850 min
Hidden BrainMarching To Your Own DrummerWhat would you have done? It's one of the most enduring questions in psychology. We all like to think that in a moment of crisis, we'd rise to the occasion and show courage. And yet many of us have had experiences where we followed orders and did what we were told to do. This week, we talk with psychologist Sunita Sah about the reasons why many of us silence ourselves and follow orders, and how we can align our words and actions with our values.In today's conversation, Shankar mentioned our episode with Timur Kuran, in which...
2025-02-2448 min
Hidden BrainThe Conversations that Bring Us CloserLast week on the show, we looked at the science of conversation, and how even ordinary chats can involve a delicate dance of coordination. This week, we explore the discussions we all dread: the tough ones. Telling someone they treated us poorly. Demanding a raise. Taking away an elderly relative's car keys. We talk with Alison Wood Brooks about what makes difficult conversations difficult, and a series of psychological techniques to help you navigate them.If you missed part one of our conversation with Alison, be sure to check it out! It's titled "We Need to Talk." S...
2025-02-1749 min
No Small Endeavor with Lee C. CampUnabridged Interview: Shankar Vedantam
This is our unabridged interview with Shankar Vedantam. We all like to believe that we live our lives rationally, deliberately, consciously. But what if our conscious decision making is just the tip of the iceberg? “ I feel like I have a full picture of what's happening inside my own mind,” says Shankar Vedantam. But it turns out “there is a large portion of our mind that's working outside of our conscious awareness.” Shankar founded Hidden Brain Media in order to teach people what science has uncovered about our brains. In this episod...
2025-02-0757 min
No Small Endeavor with Lee C. CampShankar Vedantam: Hidden Brain
We all like to believe that we live our lives rationally, deliberately, consciously. But what if our conscious decision making is just the tip of the iceberg? “ I feel like I have a full picture of what's happening inside my own mind,” says Shankar Vedantam. But it turns out “there is a large portion of our mind that's working outside of our conscious awareness.” Shankar founded Hidden Brain Media in order to teach people what science has uncovered about our brains. In this episode, he discusses why we’re not as autonomous as we think we are, and...
2025-02-0354 min
Hidden BrainHow Monsters are MadeWhat makes ordinary people do evil things? It was a question that long fascinated the psychologist Philip Zimbardo, who died in October. Zimbardo was best known for the controversial Stanford prison experiment, in which he created a simulated prison in the basement of a university building and recruited volunteers to act as prisoners and guards. This week, we explore how Zimbardo came to create one of psychology's most notorious experiments – and inadvertently became the poster child for the human weaknesses he was trying to study. We're bringing Hidden Brain to the stage in San Francisco and Seattle in February 2...
2024-12-0246 min
House Calls with Dr. Vivek MurthyShankar Vedantam: How Do Our Minds Help (or Hinder) Finding Connection & Purpose? (Part 2)What is our purpose, both individually and collectively? What lies in the balance of who we are now and who we will become?
In Part Two of this episode, the Surgeon General and Shankar Vedantam, host of “Hidden Brain,” go deep into conversation about our individual and national quest for meaning and purpose.
This episode becomes deeply personal as both host and guest reveal their family’s hopes for coming to America, and the unimaginable ways in which those dreams were realized. They find themselves asking where else on earth ha...
2024-05-0140 min
House Calls with Dr. Vivek MurthyShankar Vedantam: How Do Our Minds Help (or Hinder) Finding Connection & Purpose? (Part 1)Have you ever had a moment when you’ve wanted to reach out to someone you haven’t seen in awhile, but something stops you, like the worry you’ll say the wrong thing? Or have you had the experience of assuming that someone who disagrees with you must also dislike you?
It turns out, our mind can play tricks on us that make it harder to connect.
Shankar Vedantam, host and creator of the podcast ”Hidden Brain” joins the Surgeon General for a two-part conversation that travels across science and deeper philosophical questions about life.
In...
2024-04-1745 min
TED Talks DailyYou don't actually know what your future self wants | Shankar Vedantam"You are constantly becoming a new person," says journalist Shankar Vedantam. In a talk full of beautiful storytelling, he explains the profound impact of something he calls the "illusion of continuity" -- the belief that our future selves will share the same views, perspectives and hopes as our current selves -- and shows how we can more proactively craft the people we are to become. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-02-0314 min
The Next Big Idea DailyBest Of: Shankar Vedantam on the Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving BrainToday, Shankar Vedantam, host of "Hidden Brain," walks us through the surprising role of self-deception in human flourishing.
2023-12-2716 min
The Local EditionNPR's Shankar Vedantam talks to Radio Catskill about 'Healing 2.0'The NPR host, Shankar Vedantam, has introduced a new series titled "Healing 2.0" as part of his show "Hidden Brain." This series, running throughout November, explores the latest insights on coping with emotional pain.Radio Catskill's Tim Bruno interviewed Vedantam to discuss why he chose to launch this series during the holiday season, which is typically regarded as the happiest time of the year.
2023-11-0708 min
WUFT110123 - Shankar Vendantem - Hidden Brain: Healing 2.0WUFT Morning Edition host, Glenn Richards, speaks with Hidden Brain founder and host, Shankar Vedantam. Hidden Brain is dedicating the month of November to a special series called “Healing 2.0”
2023-11-0310 minThe Next Big Idea DailyS34 E3: "Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain" by Shankar Vedantam & Bill MeslerToday, Shankar Vedantam, host of "Hidden Brain," walks us through the surprising role of self-deception in human flourishing.
2023-09-2717 min
How to Be a Better HumanHow do I know what my future self wants? (w/ Shankar Vedantam)How well would you say you know yourself? Do you feel like the same person you were 10 years ago? Today’s guest, Shankar Vedantam, loves these kinds of questions and what they reveal about what we believe about ourselves and how we actually behave. Shankar is a science writer and the creator and host of the podcast “Hidden Brain”. In this episode, Shankar shares why he’s fascinated by the things we THINK we know, uncovers examples of what our brains hide from us, and shares how we can use that knowledge to live the lives we want to be livin...
2023-09-2536 min
Hidden BrainIntroducing Hidden Brain+Do you love the ideas we explore on Hidden Brain and want more of them? Then please join Hidden Brain+, our new podcast subscription. You’ll find new episodes not available anywhere else, plus the chance to have your questions answered by the researchers we feature on the show. Find Hidden Brain+ exclusively on the Apple Podcasts app beginning May 25. Thanks, and see you there! -Shankar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2023-05-1402 min
Depression Detox Show | Daily Inspirational Talks445 | Shankar Vedantam: "You Are Constantly Becoming A New Person." Host of the "Hidden Brain" podcast Shankar Vedantam, debuts on the show to share a thought-provoking message about our past, present and future selves and what we can do to be our best. Source: You Don’t Actually Know What Your Future Self Wants | Shankar Vedantam | TED Connect with Shankar Vedantam: Book: Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain Podcast: Hidden Brain Hosted by Malikee Josephs (Pronounced Muh leek Jo seffs) Give Me A Shout: Follow Me On Instagram @DepressionDetoxShow. Email me: mj@depressiondetoxshow.com. Support The Show: Donate
2023-02-2412 min
TED TalksYou don't actually know what your future self wants | Shankar Vedantam"You are constantly becoming a new person," says journalist Shankar Vedantam. In a talk full of beautiful storytelling, he explains the profound impact of something he calls the "illusion of continuity" -- the belief that our future selves will share the same views, perspectives and hopes as our current selves -- and shows how we can more proactively craft the people we are to become.
2022-10-0615 min
TEDTalks Niños y FamiliaNo sabes lo que quiere tu yo del futuro | Shankar Vedantam"Todo el tiempo te estás transformando en una persona nueva", dice el periodista Shankar Vedantam. En esta charla…
2022-10-0614 minTED Talks Kids and FamilyYou don't actually know what your future self wants | Shankar Vedantam"You are constantly becoming a new person," says journalist Shankar Vedantam. In a talk full of beautiful storytelling, he explains the profound impact of something he calls the "illusion of continuity" -- the belief that our future selves will share the same views, perspectives and hopes as our current selves -- and shows how we can more proactively craft the people we are to become.
2022-10-0614 minTEDTalks Vie familialeEn fait, on ignore ce que notre moi futur souhaitera | Shankar Vedantam« On est constamment une nouvelle personne en devenir », nous affirme le journaliste Shankar Vedantam. Dans un discours empreint de jolies histoires, il nous parle de l'impact profond de ce qu'il appelle « l'illusion de la continuité » - la croyance que notre moi futur partagera la même vision, la même perspectives et les mêmes espoirs que notre moi présent. il nous montre comment nous pouvons façonner plus proactivement la personne que nous deviendrons.
2022-10-0614 minTEDTalks Crianças e FamíliaNão sabemos, na verdade, o que nosso eu futuro quer | Shankar Vedantam"Estamos sempre nos tornando uma pessoa nova", diz o jornalista Shankar Vedantam. Em uma palestra repleta de belas narrativas, ele explica o impacto profundo de algo que ele chama de "ilusão de continuidade" - a crença de que nosso eu do futuro compartilhará as mesmas opiniões, perspectivas e esperanças que nosso eu atual - e mostra como podemos criar de forma mais proativa as pessoas que vamos nos tornar.
2022-10-0614 min
Growing BolderGrowing Bolder: Travel Host and Writer Samantha Brown; Author and Host of Hidden Brain Shankar VedantamSamantha Brown has one of those dream jobs we all envy. As the host of several travel shows, including her latest, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love on public TV, she has visited more than 60 countries, 250 cities, and 40 U.S. states. She explains how much we can all learn by traveling and meeting people from all walks of life and offers her three best tips for people of all ages and all income levels to see the world, at a fraction of the cost.Plus, can deceiving ourselves sometimes be a good thing? Shankar Vedan...
2022-09-1100 min
Behavioral Grooves PodcastDelusions Can Actually Be Useful: Hidden Brain’s Shankar Vedantam Reveals How [Republish]Shankar Vedantam is the host of the wildly popular podcast, Hidden Brain and esteemed author of the book Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain. We initially interviewed Shankar in mid 2021 but want to highlight this discussion for you again as it is one we still discuss in more recent episodes.
Before reading Shankar’s book and interviewing him for this podcast we were, as Shankar describes himself, card-carrying rationalists. We were firmly in the camp of believing rational, scientific findings and believing that lies and deception are harmful to ourselves and to our co...
2022-08-221h 21
ZvedavosťLetné čítanie z kníh z vydavateľstva Denníka N: Shankar Vedantam a Bill Mesler - Užitočné ilúzie 2. časťShankar Vedantam, novinár a autor úspešnej rozhlasovej relácie a podcastu Hidden Brain, spolu s novinárom Billom Meslerom prinášajú zaujímavý pohľad na to, ako funguje ľudský mozog, keď sa snaží oklamať sám seba, a akú rolu zohráva sebaklam vo vývoji ľudstva.
2022-07-2819 minZvedavosťLetné čítanie z kníh z vydavateľstva Denníka N: Shankar Vedantam a Bill Mesler - Užitočné ilúzie 1. časťShankar Vedantam, novinár a autor úspešnej rozhlasovej relácie a podcastu Hidden Brain, spolu s novinárom Billom Meslerom prinášajú zaujímavý pohľad na to, ako funguje ľudský mozog, keď sa snaží oklamať sám seba, a akú rolu zohráva sebaklam vo vývoji ľudstva.
2022-07-2617 min
Speaking of PsychologyRevealing the Hidden Brain, with Shankar VedantamHow much insight do people have into why they behave the way they do? Science journalist Shankar Vedantam, host of the Hidden Brain podcast and author of “Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain,” talks about why he is fascinated by the paradoxes of human behavior, what it takes to bring the popular podcast to life, and why it’s important to show the public the challenges as well as the triumphs of science. Links The Hidden Brain Speaking of Psychology Home Page Learn more about your a...
2022-06-2940 min
Behavioral Grooves PodcastConspiracy Theories: Hidden Brain‘s Shankar Vedantam | The Delusion of NationsHost of Hidden Brain podcast, Shankar Vedantam talks with us about the powers: both useful and harmful, of our delusional thinking. Nations are an example of useful delusions; they are an entirely human-made construct, yet they can present us with a unifying, shared identity.
There is a tipping point, however, at which our beliefs can become harmful to someone else. Shankar defines conspiracy theories as a particular type of self deception which can easily escalate into harmful behavior.
Our conversation with Shankar touches on the Capitol Riots in Washington DC on January 6th 2021, and how c...
2021-11-0314 min
The Next Big IdeaDELUSIONS: How Self-Deception Can Help You Flourish (Shankar Vedantam & Daniel Pink)Is it really so bad to be a little bit delusional? Not according to Shankar Vedantam. In his new book, “Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain,” he argues that we tell ourselves lies in order to live. We believe our marriages will last, even though there’s a fifty-fifty chance we’re headed for divorce. We trick ourselves into thinking our children are extraordinary because if we saw them for who they really are — average, disobedient, smelly — the body blows of parenting would be more than we could bear. In this candid conversation with Next Big Idea Clu...
2021-06-1658 min
Cloud Streaks49. Free will vs determinism; mentioning Sam Harris, Shankar Vedantam, Daniel KahnemanBiology vs Nature vs Self Authoring.
Useful delusions. - Shankar Vedantam
The difference between genius and insanity is success.
Areas = 1. Biological programs you can’t change + 2. Subconscious programs you can change + 3. Micro things like tired and hungry + 4. Subconscious + 5. Listening to your subconscious + 6. Willpower.
The mind is a great servant, but a terrible master.
Eliminate the need for willpower.
Contact us at info@cloudstreaks.com
2021-06-121h 02
10% Happier with Dan HarrisThe Surprising Upsides of Self-Deception | Shankar VedantamAnyone with a passing familiarity with Buddhism will know that "delusion" is rarely, if ever, mentioned in a positive way. In fact, the Buddha included delusion (aka: confusion about the way things really are) on his list of "the three poisons." The whole point of meditation, per the Buddha, is to uproot delusion -- along with greed and hatred. Only then can you be enlightened. My guest today is here to valiantly make the case that delusion -- or self-deception -- has an upside. Many upsides, in fact. While he concedes that self-deception can, of course, be massively harmful, he a...
2021-06-091h 10
Hidden BrainLoss and RenewalNo matter how hard we work, we won’t always achieve the goals we set for ourselves. When cognitive scientist Maya Shankar was a girl, she wanted to be a concert violinist. Then an injury forced her to imagine her life anew. This week, we revisit a favorite episode from 2015 with Maya. She’s now the host of a new podcast, A Slight Change of Plans.
If you like our work, please consider supporting it! See how you can help at support.hiddenbrain.org. And to learn more about human behavior and ideas that can improve your life...
2021-05-2426 min
Behavioral Grooves PodcastHow Delusions Can Actually Be Useful: Shankar Vedantam Reveals HowIn this episode, we are delighted to welcome Shankar Vedantam, host of the wildly popular podcast, Hidden Brain and esteemed author of the new book Useful Delusions (https://amzn.to/2PUkzlv).
Before reading Shankar’s book and interviewing him for this podcast we were, as Shankar describes himself, card-carrying rationalists. We were firmly in the camp of believing rational, scientific findings and believing that lies and deception are harmful to ourselves and to our communities. However, Shankar walks us through a compelling argument, that paradoxically, self-deception actually plays a pivotal role in our happiness and well-being.
I...
2021-05-161h 21
She Likes To Go Slow Podcast : Slow Down and ListenShankar Vedantam, author of HIdden Brain and Useful Delusions
Author of the book and podcast, “The Hidden Brain,” Shankar Vedantam’s newest book is called “Useful Delusions.” We cover many great discussions in this episode!
2021-04-2922 min
MetaPodTara Boyle of Hidden Brain“Hidden Brain explores the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior and questions that lie at the heart of our complex and changing world.”Imagine years of academic research distilled down to a 45-minute conversation. The conversation is easy to understand and offers new ways to look at things. It’s unimposing, yet applicable to your own life. It’s also calming to listen to. That is roughly what you can expect from a podcast called Hidden Brain.Hosted by Shankar Vedantam, a social science correspondent for National Public Radio (NPR) in the USA, Hidden B...
2021-04-2146 min
Hidden BrainUseful DelusionsPodcast hosts are used to being the ones asking the questions. This week, though, we’re going to flip that script, and put Shankar in the guest seat. We’ll hear a recent interview he did with Krys Boyd of the public radio show Think from KERA in Dallas. The discussion revolves around Shankar's latest book, Useful Delusions, and how self-deceptions can bind together marriages, communities, and even entire nations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2021-04-0549 min
The Arik Korman ShowShankar Vedantam on the Self-Deceiving BrainShankar Vedantam, host of the Hidden Brain podcast and public radio show, discusses how we can bring our country together in these divisive times, why it's good to think our children are exceptional, and why we need to feel like our lives have meaning. His new book is Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain.
2021-03-1926 min
IN MY FEELSSHANKAR VEDANTAM - Hidden Brain, The Mind, Spirituality, Consciousness, Life After Death!Shankar Vedantam (@HiddenBrain) founded Hidden Brain Media in 2019, and is the host and executive editor of the Hidden Brain podcast and radio show. From 2011 to 2020, he was a social science correspondent with NPR. Before that, he was a national correspondent at The Washington Post. Between 2007 and 2009, he authored the weekly Department of Human Behavior column in The Washington Post. In 2010, he published The Hidden Brain: How our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Control Markets, Wage Wars, Save Our Lives and Useful Delusions. Shankar is the winner of several journalism awards and was a 2009-2010 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University.
2021-03-1753 min
Sixth & I LIVEShankar Vedantam, host of "Hidden Brain," with David GreeneIn Useful Delusions: The Power and Paradox of the Self-Deceiving Brain, Shankar Vedantam, the host of the "Hidden Brain" podcast, argues that, paradoxically, deceiving ourselves and others can play a vital role in human success and well-being. In conversation with David Greene, an award-winning journalist, New York Times bestselling author of Midnight in Siberia, and former host of Morning Edition and Up First on NPR. This program was held on March 2, 2021.
2021-03-141h 01
Hidden BrainLove is BlindWhy do some relationships last, while others falter? In this bonus episode, Shankar looks at one thing successful couples do well. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2021-02-1306 min
Hidden BrainAn Update from ShankarIt’s been five years since we launched this podcast. Today, we want to take a moment to thank the many people who’ve helped us over the years. And we want to share some changes with you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2020-10-0204 min
Hidden BrainYou 2.0: Loss And RenewalMaya Shankar was well on her way to a career as a violinist when an injury closed that door. This week, as part of our annual You 2.0 series on personal growth and reinvention, we revisit our 2015 conversation with Maya, in which she shares how she found a new path forward after losing an identity she loved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2020-08-1724 min
Hidden BrainThe Time MachineIn recent months, many of us have looked back with longing at our lives before COVID-19. For many of us, that world was one of bustle and activity — marked by scenes of packed restaurants, crowded subway cars, and chaotic playgrounds. In this audio essay, Shankar discusses our wistfulness for the world before the pandemic, and why such nostalgia can actually help to orient us toward the future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2020-05-3005 min
Hidden BrainA Hidden Brain Commencement AddressCommencement ceremonies allow us to take stock of what we've accomplished and where we're headed. This is one of the key opportunities that students and families have lost, as social distancing precautions lead schools to cancel in-person graduations. In this "commencement address," recorded at the request of the public radio program 1A, Shankar Vedantam offers thoughts on what it means to mark such a milestone at this moment, and how graduates can use the disruption caused by the pandemic to think about their lives in new ways. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz...
2020-05-1306 min
Hidden BrainLoss and RenewalMaya Shankar was well on her way to an extraordinary career as a violinist when an injury closed that door. She eventually found a new path forward in a very different field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2018-12-3124 min
Circle Round 'The Drum' | feat. Shankar Vedantam Shankar Vedantam (NPR's "Hidden Brain") retells an Indian folktale about a young girl whose generous heart takes her on a surprising adventure.
Download a coloring page for this episode here: wbur.org/circleround/coloring-pages
Sign up for our monthly newsletter, "The Lion's Roar", here.
2018-02-2717 min
Hidden BrainRadio Replay: Life, InterruptedWhat price do we pay for the constant interruptions we get from our phones and computers? And is there a better way to handle distraction? In this week's Radio Replay we bring you a favorite conversation with the computer scientist Cal Newport. Plus, Shankar gets electrodes strapped to his head to test a high-tech solution to interruptions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2017-12-0148 min
AFP ConversationsShankar Vedantam: How the Hidden Brain Impacts Treasury and FinanceBest-selling author and NPR correspondent Shankar Vedantam explains how hidden psychological factors shape the decisions made by corporate treasury and finance professionals every day. Vedantam is the keynote speaker at AFP2017.
2017-07-0623 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Ep. 35: Creature ComfortsThis week, Hidden Brain considers the power of touch. First, Alison MacAdam tells us the story of her security blanket, called Baba. Then, Shankar interviews writer Deborah Blum about groundbreaking experiments into the importance of affection for young children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2017-04-1127 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Episode 15: Loss and RenewalMaya Shankar was well on her way to an extraordinary career as a violinist when an injury closed that door. This week, we look at how she wound up at the top of another field: the social sciences. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-12-2724 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Episode 11: ForgeryThis week on Hidden Brain, we explore real and fake, from fine art to fine wine. Shankar speaks with Noah Charney, author of The Art of Forgery, about why art forgers are compelled to spend their lives copying the great masters, and why so many of them want to get caught. Also this week: why we love studies that prove wine connoisseurs wrong. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-08-1623 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 35: Creature ComfortsThis week, Hidden Brain considers the power of touch. First, Alison MacAdam tells us the story of her security blanket, called Baba. Then, Shankar interviews writer Deborah Blum about groundbreaking experiments into the importance of affection for young children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-06-2127 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 34: Google at WorkThis week on Hidden Brain, Shankar talks to Google's Laszlo Bock for insider tips and insights about what works — and what doesn't work — in recruiting, motivating, and retaining a talented workforce. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-06-0726 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 31: Your Brain on UberUber is built on the scourge of surge. When demand is high, the company charges two, three, even NINE-POINT-NINE times as much as normal for a ride. Riders hate it . . . but not so much that they stop riding. Yep, "dynamic pricing" has helped the company to grow into one of the largest taxi services in the world. What's the psychology behind it? Shankar sits down with Uber's Head of Economic Research Keith Chen to talk about when we're most likely pay for surge, when we hate it the most, and why monkeys would probably act and feel the same...
2016-05-1730 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Episode 16: MisbehavingFrom eating marshmallows to spending lottery winnings, Shankar Vedantam talks with behavioral economist Richard Thaler about Misbehaving. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-04-1223 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 25: Dream JobsWhy do you work? Are you just in it for the money, or do you do it for a greater purpose? Popular wisdom says your answer depends on what your job is. But psychologist Amy Wrzesniewski at Yale University finds it may have more to do with how we think about our work. Across secretaries and custodians and computer programmers, she finds we're about equally split in whether we say we have a job, a career, or a calling. This week on Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam talks with Amy about how we find meaning and purpose at work.
2016-03-2920 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Episode 9: Aziz Ansari on Modern LoveHidden Brain host Shankar Vedantam talks to comedian Aziz Ansari — star of Master of None and coauthor of Modern Romance — about Tinder, texting and how dating is a bit like... buying jam. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-03-0826 min
Hidden BrainEncore of Episode 2: Near VictoriesShankar Vedantam explores "almosts" and "not quites" on this episode of the Hidden Brain podcast, with the help of Monica Wadhwa, Dan Pink, and country music singer Kacey Musgraves. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-02-0222 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 16: MisbehavingFrom eating marshmallows to spending lottery winnings, Shankar Vedantam talks with behavioral economist Richard Thaler about his book Misbehaving. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2016-01-1222 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 15: Loss and RenewalMaya Shankar was well on her way to an extraordinary career as a violinist when an injury closed that door. This week, we look at how she wound up at the top of another field: the social sciences. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-12-2924 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 12: HumorThis week on Hidden Brain, Shankar Vedantam looks at what we find funny and what, well, crosses the line. Comedian Bill Burr joins us to talk about why race, gender and Caitlin Jenner can be so funny. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-12-0819 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 11: ForgeryThis week on Hidden Brain, we explore real and fake, from fine art to fine wine. Shankar speaks with Noah Charney, author of The Art of Forgery, about why art forgers are compelled to spend their lives copying the great masters, and why so many of them want to get caught. Also this week: why we love studies that prove wine connoisseurs wrong. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-12-0123 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 9: Aziz Ansari on Modern LoveHidden Brain host Shankar Vedantam talks to comedian Aziz Ansari — star of a new Netflix show and coauthor of Modern Romance — about Tinder, texting and how dating is a bit like... buying jam. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-11-1726 min
Hidden BrainBrain Bonus: Magic BrainIn time for your Friday commute, we introduce you to a new segment called Magic Brain. Shankar explores the social science behind magic, and discovers that free choice is sometimes just an illusion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-10-0204 min
Hidden BrainEpisode 2: Near VictoriesShankar Vedantam explores "almosts" and "not quites" on this episode of the Hidden Brain podcast, with the help of Monica Wadhwa, Dan Pink, and country music singer Kacey Musgraves. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-09-2922 min
Hidden BrainHidden Brain: A Sneak PeekCheck out a few minutes of the latest podcast from NPR: Hidden Brain. Shankar Vedantam explores what happens when two people think they are talking about the same thing, but in reality are speeding down separate tracks. It usually doesn't end well. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2015-09-0405 min
Voices on AntisemitismShankar VedantamShankar Vedantam has spent a lot of time thinking about the links between science and human behavior. His recent book, The Hidden Brain, challenges us to consider the unconscious biases we may carry, and the ways they steer our behavior.
2013-08-0108 min
Voices on AntisemitismShankar VedantamShankar Vedantam has spent a lot of time thinking about the links between science and human behavior. His recent book, The Hidden Brain, challenges us to consider the unconscious biases we may carry, and the ways they steer our behavior.
2013-08-0100 min
Radio CuriousHave You Found Your Hidden Brain? Part TwoNot too long before the pseudo religious organization known as “The People’s Temple moved to the remote jungles of Guyana in the northeast corner of South America where over 900 people killed themselves at the direction of Jim Jones in 1978, they were based in Redwood Valley, California, about 10 miles from Ukiah, the home of Radio Curious. In this, the second Radio Curious conversation with Shankar Vedantam author of “The Hidden Brain: How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Control Markets, Wage Wars, and Save Our Lives,” we explore what compelled these people to kill themselves. We’ll examine what compels suicide bombers of...
2010-06-0929 minRadio CuriousHave You Found Your Hidden Brain?PART ONE
How do we make the big decisions in our lives? Who to vote for?—or who to choose as a life mate or form an opinion about politics or war? Most of us are certain we consciously evaluate these decisions. But, we may be fooling ourselves, if not fooled by others. Shankar Vedantam, author of “The Hidden Brain: How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Control Markets, Wage Wars, and Save Our Lives,” encourages us to be aware of how our unconscious mind is capable of controlling our decision making capabilities. In this, the first of two visits with Shanka...
2010-06-0829 min