Shrink Space
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© Rob Patterson, Ph.D. David Colarossi, Ph.D.
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Join Dr. Rob Patterson and Dr. David Colarossi, two friends and psychologists, as they explore the intricacies of the human mind with humor, heart, and a side of friendly banter. In each episode, they debate key psychological concepts, shedding light on the fascinating principles that shape our everyday lives. From unraveling the mysteries of human behavior to diving into the latest research—or just having a good laugh along the way—Shrink Space is your go-to podcast for a lively mix of insights, spirited debates, and plenty of laughs that will make you think twice about what makes us tick.
66 Episodes
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Why are some people more creative?Dave and Rob visited SXSW and got thinking about what drives creativity. Is it incentives, mindset, or something deeper?In this episode, they break down the psychology behind being creative, including the role of self-efficacy, hope, and incentives. They explore how believing your actions matter can shape your behavior, and why some people get stuck while others move forward.
In this episode of Shrink Space, we cover major news shaping the world today: the war in Iran, political tensions, and the narratives forming around global conflict.We also talk about Donald Trump, the Epstein files, and public scrutiny of powerful figures, including Bill Clinton. Power, secrecy, and influence collide in ways that keep these stories dominating the conversation.
In this episode of Shrink Space, David and Rob talk about the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team controversy and how sports, politics, and public expectations collide. They dive into reactions to Donald Trump and Kash Patel, and explore why political moments so quickly divide people into opposing sides.David shares his frustration about the response to his recent video, leading to an honest discussion about online criticism and how intentions can be misunderstood. Rob and Dave also examine in-group vs. out-group thinking, why people get defensive about politics, and how identity and belonging shape the way we listen, argue, and respond to each other.
People love watching competence. In this episode of Shrink Space, we talk about “competence porn” and why shows like The Pitt are so satisfying to watch. Calm, capable people handling things well has become deeply appealing, especially in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. Calm is the new charisma.We also briefly touch on the Epstein files and why they’re back in the public conversation.
What is vulnerability actually—and what is it not? In this episode of Shrink Space, we break down the psychology of vulnerability, why people confuse it with oversharing, and why vulnerability is essential for trust, intimacy, and real emotional strength.📺 Watch more Shrink Space for grounded, insightful conversations where real psychology meets real life.👇 Leave a comment with your thoughts—we might feature it in the next episode!#PsychologyPodcast #impressions #motivation #selfawareness #ShrinkSpace #PopPsych #DavidColarossi #RobPattersonFollow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow
We’re all managing impressions - whether we admit it or not.At work. In relationships. Online. Even at home. In this episode of Shrink Space, we unpack impression management: the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways people shape how they’re seen—and why it matters more than we usually think. 📺 Watch more Shrink Space for grounded, insightful conversations where real psychology meets real life.👇 Leave a comment with your thoughts—we might feature it in the next episode!#PsychologyPodcast #burnout #ShrinkSpace #PopPsych #DavidColarossi #RobPattersonFollow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow
In this episode, we analyze the Minneapolis ICE shooting and the psychological reactions it triggered. We explain how normalcy bias, cognitive dissonance and political identity shape the way people perceive shocking events. We also examine the public response alongside Trump’s reaction.Gain insight into the human mind under crisis and the societal factors influencing fear, bias and decision-making.Follow us on social media: Instagram | TikTok
Psychologists Rob and Dave discuss Donald Trump’s tweet about the death of Rob Reiner, exploring what may have motivated the response and whether it reflects a narcissistic injury. A focused psychological look at ego threat and defensiveness, without a political debate.
We analyze Sean Combs: The Reckoning through a psychological lens. This episode explores Sean Combs’ upbringing, behavioral patterns, and the hedonic treadmill to show how ambition and influence shape decisions and relationships.
Can people actually change? It’s one of the oldest questions in psychology — and one we get asked all the time. In this episode of Shrink Space, Dave (a counseling psychologist) and Rob (an IO psychologist) break down what it really takes for a person to change, why some people don’t.📺 Watch more Shrink Space for grounded, insightful conversations where real psychology meets real life.👇 Leave a comment with your thoughts—we might feature it in the next episode!#PsychologyPodcast #burnout #ShrinkSpace #PopPsych #DavidColarossi #RobPattersonFollow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow
In this episode we dig into the psychology of virtuous victimhood and how it plays out in both everyday life and celebrity culture. We start with an AITA story and move into examples from Britney Spears, Jussie Smollett, Chappell Roan and Justin Bieber. We talk about what virtuous victimhood actually is, why some people might lean into it and how these narratives shape the way we see responsibility, fame and social media.Follow us on social media: Instagram | TikTok
We’re bringing back an old favorite for the holiday season. In this reissued episode, Rob and Dave talk Thanksgiving traditions, the hype around gratitude journals, and whether focusing on the positive actually helps. Expect humor, personal stories, and some surprisingly honest reflections about what they’re grateful for.If you want to see more Shrink Space, make sure to like this video, and subscribe to the channel!
Ever wonder if someone’s relationship is a mistake? We explore why people stay, how your perspective can mislead you, and smart ways to give advice without overstepping.On this episode of Shrink Space, we explore why people stay in unhealthy relationships, how our own perspective can mislead us, and whether you can actually predict which relationships will last. Plus, we share practical strategies for giving advice without overstepping. Tune in and let us know what you think!
Why does your brain resist being wrong? In this episode of Shrink Space we explore cognitive dissonance, the tension that happens when your actions and beliefs don’t line up. Learn three ways people respond to it and hear examples from cults and politics that show how it shapes decisions and beliefs.Timestamps: (00:00) Welcome back to Shrink Space(01:22) AITA question of the week(10:07) Cultural differences in burnout(17:23) Introducing today’s topic: Cognitive Dissonance(24:55) Three ways to handle Cognitive Dissonance(33:39) Is Cognitive Dissonance a bad thing? Cognitive Dissonance in Cults(35:53) Cognitive Dissonance in PoliticsDon't forget to leave a review and subscribe if you like the podcast.Follow us on social media: Instagram | TikTok
In this Shrink Space episode, Dr. David Colarossi and Dr. Rob Patterson dive deep into the psychology behind Burnout It’s funny, honest, and surprisingly practical—a real-world psychologist’s take on one of pop psychology’s most viral ideas.📺 Watch more Shrink Space for grounded, insightful conversations where real psychology meets real life.👇 Leave a comment with your thoughts—we might feature it in the next episode!#PsychologyPodcast #burnout #ShrinkSpace #PopPsych #DavidColarossi #RobPattersonFollow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow
In this Shrink Space episode, Dr. David Colarossi and Dr. Rob Patterson dive deep into the psychology behind The 5 Love Languages — and why the framework might actually do more harm than good.They unpack why Gary Chapman’s best-selling relationship book became so popular, what it gets right about communication and emotional connection, and where it goes off the rails. Are love languages helpful for couples trying to connect—or do they accidentally promote narcissism and entitlement?The conversation also touches on:💬 Why “words of affirmation” and “acts of service” aren’t created equal🧠 How personality traits like introversion and extroversion affect the way we give and receive love⚖️ Why expecting your partner to meet all your emotional needs is a modern trap❤️ How to recognize love even when it’s not shown in your preferred “language”It’s funny, honest, and surprisingly practical—a real-world psychologist’s take on one of pop psychology’s most viral ideas.📺 Watch more Shrink Space for grounded, insightful conversations where real psychology meets real life.👇 Leave a comment with your thoughts—we might feature it in the next episode!#PsychologyPodcast #LoveLanguages #Relationships #ShrinkSpace #PopPsych #DavidColarossi #RobPattersonFollow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow
Are you an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert?In this episode of Shrink Space, psychologists David Colarossi and Rob Patterson explore how personality shapes the way we connect, lead, and show up. Discover the strengths of introverts, practical ways to share your ideas, and how anyone can boost charisma and executive presence.Packed with tips and insights, this episode helps you show up charismatic while staying true to yourself.
In this episode, Rob and David sit down with John A. Brink — an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author whose life reads like a blueprint for grit and reinvention.Born in Nazi-occupied Holland and liberated by Canadian soldiers at age five, John immigrated to Canada with just $25.47 in his pocket. Over the next five decades, he built Brink Forest Products, one of North America’s largest secondary lumber manufacturers, employing hundreds and exporting worldwide.We talk about his early years, the mindset that carried him across continents, and what drives him to keep creating opportunities for others.Chapters: If you are curious about personality traits, self-understanding, and personal growth, this episode is for you.#JohnBrink #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Resilience #AgainstAllOdds #Inspiration #BusinessStory #Motivation #CanadianSuccess #TradesEducation #PopPsych #ShrinkSpacePodcast
Are you an overthinker or highly sensitive to everything around you? That might be neuroticism. In this episode of Shrink Space, we explore what neuroticism really is, the upsides and downsides, and practical ways to handle it in daily life.We cover:What neuroticism is and how it shapes personalitySurprising benefits of being neuroticDownsides like overthinking, emotional intensity, and sensitivityStrategies to manage and make the most of neurotic traitsThis episode is perfect for anyone interested in personality, self-understanding, and personal growth.Follow us on social media: Instagram | TikTok
Reach out to our new sponsor: "Patterson Consulting Group" at info@Pattersonconsultinggroup.com. You can also find out more information about their services on their website: https://www.pattersonconsultinggroup.com.In this episode of Shrink Space, David and Rob discuss the death of Charlie Kirk, exploring the psychological mechanisms that drive our collective response. We dive into why society feels the need to politicize and polarize the tragic event, and what this reveals about us.#charliekirkshooting #charliekirk #PoliticalPolarizationSubscribe to Shrink Space for more deep dives into psychology, pop culture, and the strange corners of the internet.Follow us on Social Mediahttps://www.instagram.com/shrinkspaceshow/https://www.tiktok.com/@shrinkspaceshow#aita #psychologyexplained #psychologypodcast #epsteinfiles #conspiracytheory #relationships #humanbehavior #humanbehaviorinsights
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