Best Kurt Nelson Phd And Tim Houlihan Podcasts (2025)

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Eight Years Grooving: Value of an Open Mind | Jonathan Malesic (Republish) 1:02:35

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4h ago1:02:35

1:02:35

This October, we’re celebrating 8 years of Behavioral Grooves! To mark the occasion, we’re digging into our archives and re-sharing some of our most popular and thought-provoking conversations every Thursday for the next two months. The celebration builds to our Anniversary Event on October 16th in Minneapolis, where fan favorite Nick Epley will le…

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Everything You’ve Heard About Screen Time Is Wrong | Jay Vidyarthi 1:06:33

3d ago1:06:33

1:06:33

Jay Vidyarthi blends Silicon Valley design expertise with mindfulness practice to show how you can “fight design with design” and create a healthier, more joyful relationship with your tech. Instead of guilt or digital detoxes, he offers strategies for reframing boundaries into rituals, focusing on what’s good about your devices, and making intenti…

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How to Stay Grounded When Life Feels Chaotic 30:22

7d ago30:22

30:22

When life feels chaotic, how do we stay grounded? In this bonus episode, we reflect on a few years of personal upheaval and explore how temporal uncertainty affects our decision-making and well-being. We share behavioral science tools—like micro-anchors, cognitive reframing, and environmental cues—that can help us stay centered when life refuses to…

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Why Do Culture Wars Happen? | Michael Morris 1:20:28

10d ago1:20:28

1:20:28

Why do we instinctively form groups, follow leaders, and defend traditions—even when it hurts us? Columbia professor Michael Morris joins us to explore the three tribal instincts—peer, hero, and ancestor—that shape how we cooperate and clash. From case studies at GM and Reddit to the surprising origins of Thanksgiving, we uncover how culture evolve…

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Get Real About Money | Daniel Crosby 1:13:43

18d ago1:13:43

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Dr. Daniel Crosby joins us to explore the soul of wealth — and why your bank account isn’t the best measure of a meaningful life. We dig into behavioral finance, how to align spending with your values, and the power of behavioral judo: using your psychological biases to your advantage. ©2025 Behavioral Grooves Topics [0:00] Intro and speed round wi…

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How to Silence Self-Doubt | Rosi Greenberg 1:05:55

26d ago1:05:55

1:05:55

When author and leadership facilitator Rosi Greenberg found herself overwhelmed by self-doubt, she did something unexpected: she gave her inner critic a name — Sam — and drew him into a whimsical, deeply personal book that blends creativity, vulnerability, and behavioral insight. In this episode, Rosi shares how visualizing and engaging with that c…

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The Happiness Secret You’ve Been Missing | Shige Oishi 1:21:30

1M ago1:21:30

1:21:30

Psychologist Shige Oishi joins us to explore the three dimensions of a fulfilling life: happiness, meaning, and psychological richness. He shares insights from decades of research into subjective well-being and reveals how personality traits, life experiences, and cultural contexts shape what we consider a “good life.” From challenging the “happine…

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How Grocery Stores Trick Your Brain 17:45

1M ago17:45

17:45

From candy at checkout to calm music and “limit 4” signs, grocery stores are packed with subtle nudges that influence your behavior. In this month's bonus groove, we uncover the psychological tricks behind supermarket design and how to shop more intentionally. Topics [0:00] Intro: The Psychology of Supermarkets [3:54] Techniques to Make You Buy [9:…

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Science-Backed Tips to Make Work Worthwhile | Wes Adams & Tamara Myles 1:17:23

1M ago1:17:23

1:17:23

Wes Adams and Tamara Miles join the show to share their 3 C’s framework—Community, Contribution, and Challenge—for creating more meaningful workplaces. Backed by large-scale research and packed with practical leadership advice, this episode explores how small moments, like a thank-you or an empowering gesture, can spark a virtuous cycle of engageme…

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Why Brands That Get Personal Win Big | Ken Hughes 1:11:27

2M ago1:11:27

1:11:27

Global behavior expert Ken Hughes joins us for a fast-paced, funny, and thought-provoking conversation about creativity, brand loyalty, and what it really takes to build emotional connections in a digital world. From painting his toenails to drinking his own urine (seriously), Ken shares lessons from a year of trying something new every day—alongsi…

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Why Do We Struggle to Talk About Money? | Abby Davisson 1:01:14

2M ago1:01:14

1:01:14

Abby Davisson, co-author of Money and Love, joins us to discuss why life’s biggest decisions—from careers to relationships—require both emotional insight and rational thinking. She shares her 5C framework for making confident choices, reveals how love and money are more connected than we think, and offers practical tools to navigate values, identit…

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The Real Reason Remote Work Works | Raj Choudhury 1:14:07

2M ago1:14:07

1:14:07

Raj Choudhury joins us to explore how “Work From Anywhere” is more than a trend—it’s a research-backed blueprint for improving productivity, well-being, and talent access. From managing time zones to building culture without offices, Raj breaks down what it takes to make remote work really work. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Raj Choudhur…

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Why Do Superstitions Feel So Good? 20:11

2M ago20:11

20:11

Are you like Kurt, stuck wearing a pair of 'lucky socks' every time your team plays, no matter what the outcome of the game turns out to be? In this month's bonus, we explore why we hold onto superstitions, like lucky socks, even when we know they don't work. From BF Skinner's pigeons to social identity theory, we unpack the behavioral science behi…

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Your Product Design Is Biased—Here’s How to Fix It | Alexis Mook PhD 1:00:39

2M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

UX leader Alexis Mook joins us to talk about breaking bias in product design, defending the role of behavioral research inside corporate structures, and making the leap from academia to tech. From wrongful convictions to third-party testing, this conversation reveals why saying “no” might be a researcher’s greatest superpower. Topics [0:00] Intro a…

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The Five Words That Change Lives | Zach Mercurio 1:12:29

2M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

Zach Mercurio joins us to discuss the power of mattering—why it's a foundational human need and how it can be cultivated through small but meaningful interactions. From leadership strategies to personal stories, we explore how feeling seen, heard, and valued changes everything. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Zach Mercurio [3:31] Why Matte…

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Can You Change Your Personality? | Olga Khazan 1:03:43

3M ago1:03:43

1:03:43

What if your personality isn’t fixed? Olga Khazan shares how she deliberately set out to become more extroverted, agreeable, and emotionally stable—using improv, mindfulness, and science-backed strategies. Based on her book Me, But Better, this conversation explores how real change happens, and why connecting with others may be the key to becoming …

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Lessons on Life From Hospice Patients | Jordan Grumet 1:00:34

3M ago1:00:34

1:00:34

Hospice doctor, podcaster, and author Jordan Grumet joins us to explore why the traditional idea of “finding your purpose” might actually be making us miserable. Drawing from his work with patients at the end of life, Jordan challenges the pressure to chase big, lofty goals—or what he calls “big P” Purpose—and instead invites us to embrace “little …

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How to Get Unstuck: Behavioral Science Strategies 16:26

3M ago16:26

16:26

In this monthly bonus episode, we tap into insights from our Facebook community to explore what keeps us feeling stuck in our habits and goals. With help from behavioral science, we unpack the hidden forces behind inertia, fear, and comfort zones — and share practical strategies to break free. If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and get ba…

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The Top Reason You Make Bad Decisions - And How to Stop | Emily Falk 1:22:48

3M ago1:22:48

1:22:48

How do our brains choose what’s important to us? Emily Falk, neuroscientist and author of What We Value, joins us to decode what goes on behind the scenes with our decisions - everything from what to eat for breakfast to how to respond to trolls on social media - and how emotional, rational, and social information is integrated by the brain to guid…

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Our Best Hope for Global Change | Faisal Naru 1:07:07

3M ago1:07:07

1:07:07

Faisal Naru traces the explosive growth of behavioral science in policy from 2010 to today, highlighting how Global South nations are using it to address complex problems like poverty and public health. He makes the case for embedding behavioral science teams into organizations long-term—moving from quick “silver bullet” fixes to enduring “golden n…

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6 Ways Questions Can Transform Your Life | Elizabeth Weingarten 1:08:40

4M ago1:08:40

1:08:40

What if the key to growth isn’t finding better answers, but asking better questions? In this episode, Elizabeth Weingarten shares insights from her book How to Fall in Love with Questions, exploring how embracing uncertainty can lead to greater self-awareness, resilience, and connection. Blending personal stories, behavioral science, and wisdom fro…

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The #1 Reason You Aren’t Happy - Yet. | Mark Fabian 1:19:18

4M ago1:19:18

1:19:18

Economist and philosopher Mark Fabian joins the show to explore how we can move beyond the pursuit of happiness toward a deeper, values-driven life. Drawing from behavioral science, philosophy, and his new book Beyond Happy, Mark challenges the idea of happiness as an end goal and introduces the concept of “generalized flow.” From escaping the hedo…

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4 Powerful Ways to Make Conflict Less Stressful | Dr. Joel Salinas and Bob Bordone 1:15:58

4M ago1:15:58

1:15:58

What if we stopped trying to win or avoid conflict—and instead built the resilience to grow through it? In this episode, neurologist Joel Salinas and conflict resolution expert Bob Bordone offer a powerful reframe on disagreement, showing how neuroscience and self-awareness can help us break old patterns and build stronger relationships. Topics [0:…

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The Most Effective Way to Change People's Minds | David McRaney (Republish) 1:56:51

4M ago1:56:51

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In this special republish episode science journalist David McRaney joins us to explore the surprising science behind belief, persuasion, and why minds change. We discuss tribal truth, perceptual differences (remember the dress?), and why Step Zero—examining why you want to change someone’s mind—is essential for meaningful dialogue. Topics [4:18] We…

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Want to Close the Gender Gap? Start Here | Kweilin Ellingrud 1:02:23

4M ago1:02:23

1:02:23

Kweilin Ellingrud, McKinsey’s Global Chief of Diversity and Inclusion, joins us to discuss The Broken Rung—the missed first promotion that derails many women's careers before they even begin. She shares how to build “experience capital,” why soft skills matter more than we think, and how the right first moves can lead to long-term equity and empowe…

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Are You Being 'Reasonable' -- Or Just Privileged? | Dr. Rosalind Chow 1:03:21

5M ago1:03:21

1:03:21

Dr. Rosalind Chow joins us to explore how status, power, and perspective shape what we view as “reasonable”—and why marginalized voices are often held to a different standard. From stalled DEI efforts to the illusion of objectivity among dominant groups, Rosalind challenges us to rethink who gets to define what counts as change. Topics [0:00] Intro…

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Reclaim Your Brain and Escape Digital Chaos | Richard Cytowic 1:19:52

5M ago1:19:52

1:19:52

Neuroscientist Richard Cytowic takes us on a journey through the world of synesthesia and how it reveals the fascinating ways our brains interpret reality. But that’s just the beginning. We dive into the challenges of our Stone Age brains in the digital age, busting the multitasking myth, exploring the cognitive costs of social media, and discoveri…

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How to Spark Creativity in Work & Life | Matt Arnold and Adam Hansen 1:59:31

5M ago1:59:31

1:59:31

Creativity isn’t reserved for the select few—it’s in all of us. This episode explores the science behind innovation with experts Matt Arnold and Adam Hansen, uncovering why we doubt our creative abilities and how to overcome the cognitive barriers that stifle new ideas. From breaking free of negativity bias to embedding innovation into workplace cu…

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Your Behavioral Science Questions (and more!) Answered. 50:52

5M ago50:52

50:52

It’s about time we put Kurt and Tim in the hot seat! This week, we’re turning the tables and making them answer your questions. Pulling from our recent listener survey, they sit down with their producer to tackle everything from the making of Behavioral Grooves to insights on behavioral science—and, of course, the all-important question of what the…

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The Existential Playbook: How to Make Sense of Your Life | Dr. Steve Heine 1:12:59

5M ago1:12:59

1:12:59

Dr. Steve Heine, cultural psychologist and author of Start Making Sense, joins us to explore the psychology of meaning. We discuss the four essential connections that shape a fulfilling life, why existential anxiety is on the rise, and how nostalgic reflection and storytelling help us make sense of our experiences. Plus, we dive into his “meaning a…

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Work Isn’t Fair—Here’s How to Fix It | Iris Bohnet 1:03:29

6M ago1:03:29

1:03:29

Can we design workplaces to be truly fair? Behavioral economist Iris Bohnet joins us to explore how implicit biases, stereotypes, and in-group preferences shape decision-making in the workplace—and what we can do about it. From the impact of blind auditions to the power of small structural changes, we dive into science-backed strategies for fosteri…

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The 10 Conversations You Need to Master at Work | Melody Wilding 1:21:55

6M ago1:21:55

1:21:55

Managing up isn’t about sucking up—it’s about taking control of your career. This week, executive coach and author Melody Wilding joins us to break down the ten essential workplace conversations that help you set boundaries, advocate for yourself, and navigate office dynamics with confidence. From understanding communication styles to negotiating y…

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Why Self-Improvement Is Holding You Back | Oliver Burkeman 1:18:37

6M ago1:18:37

1:18:37

Oliver Burkeman joins us to explore the power of imperfectionism and why waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap. We discuss how perfectionism, productivity myths, and self-improvement frameworks can hold us back—and why embracing uncertainty is the key to doing meaningful work. Whether you’re looking to improve daily habits or rethink your appr…

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Groove Jams: What's Your Vice? 21:55

6M ago21:55

21:55

If you could remove one vice from your life, what would it be? In this month's Groove Jams, Tim and Kurt are joined by friend of the show Brad Shuck to explore the vices that hold us back. From overworking to doomscrolling, the trio unpacks what they struggle with giving up. Except for Tim, who somehow avoids the question. From tacos to self-doubt,…

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Lost Touch? How to Rebuild Friendships and Strengthen Your Social Life | Adam Dorsay 1:30:44

6M ago1:30:44

1:30:44

Dr. Adam Dorsay joins us to explore what it truly means to connect in a digital age. From the four key types of connection—self, others, the world, and something greater—to rekindling friendships and embracing technology for deeper bonds, this episode is packed with insights on building a more fulfilling life. Plus, we (of course) discuss the power…

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Fact-Checking Love: The Truth About Romance Movies | Eli Finkel and Paul Eastwick 50:17

7M ago50:17

50:17

How accurate are rom-coms when it comes to love? Relationship scientists Paul Eastwick & Eli Finkel, co-hosts of Love Factually, put movie romance under a scientific lens, separating fact from fiction and revealing how Hollywood shapes our real-life expectations about love. Topics [0:00] Intro & Welcome to Paul Eastwick & Eli Finkel [2:00] Coffee, …

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The Science of a Thriving Relationship | Rachel Glik 1:13:25

7M ago1:13:25

1:13:25

Can love alone sustain a relationship? Probably not. In this pseudo-Valentine’s Day episode, therapist Rachel Glik explores the pillars of a soulful marriage: personal growth, prioritization, and shared purpose. We unpack the “duck effect” of social media’s relationship illusions, the value of embracing friction for deeper connection, and how self-…

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Why Is Everyone So Angry? The Science of Outrage | Kurt Gray 1:14:19

7M ago1:14:19

1:14:19

Why do we see some people as victims and others as villains? Kurt Gray joins us to explore moral typecasting, the prey vs. predator mindset, and why harm is at the heart of all moral debates—whether it’s immigration, free speech, or gun rights. We uncover how our evolutionary instincts shape outrage and polarization and discuss practical strategies…

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Turn a Negative Trait into Your Greatest Strength | Jenny Wood 1:12:06

7M ago1:12:06

1:12:06

What if personality traits deemed “negative” were actually the key to success? In this captivating conversation, former Google exec and author of Wild Courage, Jenny Wood, challenges us to redefine traits like “weird,” “selfish,” and even “manipulative” into powerful strengths. Discover how “nosiness” can spark meaningful connections, “brutal hones…

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Groove Jams: Inside the Creation of Rock’s Greatest Albums 41:07

7M ago41:07

41:07

If you’ve ever wondered what puts the “Groove” in Behavioral Grooves, this episode has the answer! We’re diving headfirst into the mesmerizing world of music with the legendary John Bargh to tackle the ultimate question: If you could sit in on the recording of any album in history, which one would you choose? From the legendary sessions at Island R…

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The Data and Influence Behind Your Digital Footprint | Sandra Matz 1:22:04

7M ago1:22:04

1:22:04

What if every digital interaction you had—every like, purchase, or GPS ping—could be used to create a detailed map of who you are? Sandra Matz, a leading behavioral scientist and data researcher, joins us to explore the fascinating world of behavioral residue, the digital traces we leave behind, and their profound impact on our lives. This episode …

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Behavioral Science Hacks for Everyday Life | Eva van den Broek and Tim den Heijer 1:08:34

8M ago1:08:34

1:08:34

How can a tiny fly in an airport urinal transform human behavior? This week, we sit down with Eva van den Broek and Tim den Heijer, authors of The Housefly Effect, to uncover how subtle environmental cues can shape our decisions in powerful and surprising ways. With Eva’s expertise in behavioral economics and Tim’s background in advertising, they r…

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Kickstart the New Year and Achieve Your Goals | Ayelet Fishbach 53:28

8M ago53:28

53:28

Happy New Year, Groovers! The start of a new year often brings fresh goals, ambitious resolutions, and a renewed sense of motivation. But what’s the psychology behind this goal-oriented mindset? In our first episode of the year, we’re joined by Dr. Ayelet Fishbach, a renowned expert in behavioral science, to explore the science of achieving goals a…

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Building Better Conversations | David Robson [Republish] 1:15:50

8M ago1:15:50

1:15:50

Happy Holidays from Behavioral Grooves! We're taking a week off to get ready for all the new and exciting content we have in store for our listeners coming in 2025. If you'd like to help us make next year's show amazing please help us by filling out the Behavioral Grooves survey here! In the meantime, please enjoy this republish of one of our favor…

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2024's Best Books to Transform Work, Life, and Thinking 46:14

8M ago46:14

46:14

Want to help us improve Behavioral Grooves? Take our listener survey here! Looking for your next great read? We’ve got you covered! It’s time for our annual Best Books episode, where we share the standout reads that inspired and informed us this year. We’ve organized our picks into four categories—Leadership, Work Life, Relationships, and Critical …

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Groove Jams: Hypothetical Hangouts – Who Would You Choose? 15:34

9M ago15:34

15:34

If you could spend a whole day with any historical figure, who would it be—and why? In this solo-sode of Groove Jams, we dive into this fascinating question, blending philosophy, psychology, and a bit of fun as we unpack our companion picks. From deep questions to unexpected lessons, we explore the impact of history’s iconic figures and the timeles…

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Toxic Productivity Is Sabotaging Your Success | Israa Nasir 1:13:52

9M ago1:13:52

1:13:52

What happens when the pursuit of productivity begins to harm your health, relationships, and happiness? In this episode, Israa Nasir joins us to discuss Toxic Productivity—the unhealthy obsession with achievement that can take a toll on your well-being. She outlines key warning signs, like disengagement and emotional dysregulation, and explores how…

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What If There’s a Better Way to Solve Your Hardest Problems? | Wendy Smith 1:09:24

9M ago1:09:24

1:09:24

Have you ever felt stuck between two seemingly opposite choices or found yourself seeing the world in absolutes? This week, we’re joined by Dr. Wendy Smith, author of Both/And Thinking, to uncover how embracing paradoxes can help us tackle life’s toughest problems. Wendy shares how shifting from an “either/or” to a “both/and” mindset can unlock bet…

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The Influence Equation: Simple Steps to Persuade Better | Steve Martin 1:10:57

9M ago1:10:57

1:10:57

How can the science of persuasion reshape your workplace? This week, we sit down with Steve Martin to discuss the principles behind his latest book, Influence at Work, and unpack the “influence equation”—a powerful framework that blends evidence, economics, and emotion to drive ethical and effective persuasion. Steve shares actionable strategies fo…

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Stress-Busting Tips for the Holidays (and Beyond!) 48:03

9M ago48:03

48:03

Between job uncertainty, political tension, holiday anxiety, and the general state of the world, stress and emotional exhaustion are at an all-time high. In this special ‘emergency episode’ ahead of the holidays, we break down why humans often unintentionally create stress through perception—and how our brain’s negativity bias amplifies it. As you …