Planting Thoughts

🎙 “When Fear Goes Viral: From Salem to Satanic Panic”🎧 Episode OverviewA chilling exploration of mass hysteria, false memory, conformity, and moral panics, told through three historical lenses: the Salem Witch Trials, the 1980s Satanic Panic, and the 1518 Dancing Plague in France. The episode dissects how fear and authority can spiral into collective delusion, injustice, and long-lasting societal trauma.Salem Witch TrialsManon tells a vivid (and partly dramatized) story of Bridget Bishop, the first woman executed during the Salem Witch Trials (hanged, not burned).Sets the thematic tone: hysteria, fear, the danger of belief.Mass psychogenic illness in Strasbourg, France.400 people danced uncontrollably; some died from exhaustion.Linked to religious fear, famine, and mass stress.Betty Parris & Abigail Williams trigger panic with strange behavior.Use of spectral evidence leads to 200+ accusations and 20 deaths.Social tensions between Salem Village (rural, poor, Puritan) and Salem Town (urban, wealthy) explain the deep divisions.Families like the Putnams vs. Porters used accusations to gain power.Religion, gender roles, and economic stress all contributed.Key figures:Tituba’s coerced confessionJohn & Elizabeth ProctorGiles Corey ("More weight")—pressed to deathJudge Samuel Sewall later publicly repents.Trials ended when the governor’s wife was accused.Satanic Panic of 1980sSparked by Michelle Remembers (1980) and media amplification.Panic spread to preschools, music, games (D&D), and TV (e.g., Oprah).McMartin Preschool case: 41 children, bizarre testimonies, no convictions.“Recovered memory therapy” now discredited.APA and FBI eventually refuted claims—no evidence of ritual abuse.Mass Psychogenic Illness (Mass Hysteria)False Memory Syndrome – Elizabeth Loftus's researchConformity – Asch line experimentsObedience to Authority – Stanley Milgram’s shock experimentsGroupthink – Irving JanisMoral Panic – Stanley Cohen’s theorySuggestibility and Fear-Based Behavior – Role of religion, media, and authority“This wasn’t just dancing—it was people mentally breaking under pressure.”“Spectral evidence... basically the 1692 version of ‘I had a bad dream and now you’re going to jail.’”“Psychology hasn’t changed—just the platforms that spread the panic.”“Mass hysteria doesn’t always look like witches or demons. Sometimes, it wears the face of someone you trust.”Mass hysteria arises from anxiety, fear, and suggestibility.Authority figures can unwittingly or purposefully spread misinformation.Historical panics may look different today but follow the same psychological patterns.Vigilance, skepticism, and education are critical.“What would you have done? Would you have spoken up… or stayed silent?”

Episode 13 Summary: Persuaded: The Hidden Forces Behind Every ‘Yes’In this eye-opening episode, Mike and Manon dig into the psychology of influence and why we often say “yes” when we mean “no.” From subtle social cues to full-on memory rewrites, this episode explores how easily our perceptions, beliefs, and even memories can be shaped by those around us.Highlights:Classic Conformity StudiesSolomon Asch’s famous line experiment shows how 75% ofpeople conform to group pressure—even when they know the group Elizabeth Loftus's Work: Demonstrates how suggestion and phrasing can alter memories-proving memory is not a video camera but a reconstruction.Cialdini's 6 Principles of Persuasion:The crew breaks down reciprocity, commitment, social proof, authority, liking, and scarcity with modern examples from Costco to Tupperware parties and Nike drops.Personal Stories:Mike recounts how a vacuum salesman used nearly every trick in the book on him; Manon shares her husband Connor's brief but charming door-to-door roof sales.Takeaway:Understanding the psychology of persuasion helps you become a more conscious consumer, communicator, and decision-maker. Influence is everywhere—but awareness is your best defense. 

In this episode of Planting Thoughts, Mike dives deep into the power of detachment—what it really means, how it’s different from emotional suppression, and why learning to “let them” is one of the most freeing things you can do. Inspired by the viral Let Them Theory, Buddhist philosophy, and psychological research, this episode explores how letting go of control and people-pleasing can lead to healthier relationships, more peace, and a stronger sense of self.Mike shares a personal story of growth, offers insights from DBT and attachment theory, and unpacks the difference between healthy and harmful detachment.Highlights include:The Let Them Theory and how it rewires emotional controlWhat Buddhism teaches us about craving and sufferingReal psychological studies on detachment and well-beingMike’s honest story about a relationship that challenged his identityTools for building self-worth without sacrificing authenticityWhether you're healing from a breakup, feeling burnt out, or just tired of bending to please others—this one’s for you.👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.New episodes every two weeks!

In this gripping and unsettling episode of Planting Thoughts, Mike and Manon take listeners deep into the chilling world of psychopathy—what it is, how it develops, and why it matters.🔍 What You’ll Learn:The science behind psychopathy: From brain abnormalities in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex to the role of serotonin and dopamine.The difference between psychopathy and other disorders like autism, narcissism, and schizophrenia.Evolutionary theories explaining psychopathy as a survival strategy.Childhood predictors and early interventions, with emphasis on callous-unemotional traits.How psychopathy can show up in the boardroom—not just behind bars.🧠 Chilling Case Studies:Dennis Rader (BTK Killer): A suburban dad with a monstrous double life.Luis Garavito (La Bestia): One of history's most prolific child murderers.Comparison killers: Bundy, Ramirez, Wuornos, and Kemper—what separates psychopathy from psychosis or trauma-driven violence?😱 Hosts Take the Psychopathy Test:Mike and Manon share their own results from the Hare Psychopathy Checklist, revealing how close—or far—they are from the clinical threshold. Spoiler: Mike's a little “spicy.”💡 Final Thoughts:Psychopathy is not binary—it’s a spectrum. Understanding it helps us navigate crime, leadership, and even our own behaviors with more nuance.🎥 Available on YouTube & SpotifySubscribe for new video episodes, and join the conversation: Should we screen for psychopathy in schools or CEOs? Can empathy be engineered?👉 Next week: The psychology of vaping addiction—why it’s more than just a bad habit.

Mike and Manon welcome listeners to their video debut with a spoiler-filled disclaimer and a preview of the episode's theme: why certain films become part of our emotional DNA. From last week’s tribute to beloved pets to today’s discussion, this episode blends psychology, nostalgia, and storytelling.From mirror neurons to moral reasoning, the hosts explore how our brains process movies—and why they leave such lasting impressions.Neuroscience: Emotional triggers, physiological synchrony, and chemical reactions like dopamine and oxytocin.Behavioral & Emotional Psych: Catharsis, conditioning, and parasocial relationships with fictional characters.Cognitive Theory: Schema alignment, narrative immersion, and internal resolution.Evolutionary Angles: Hero’s journeys as survival stories, and social learning from on-screen role models.Social & Cultural Factors: Group identity, generational memory, and pop culture as shared language.Individual Differences: How attachment styles, personality traits, and childhood experiences shape our film preferences.Mike's PicksEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind – A poetic dive into memory, heartbreak, and identity.The Shawshank Redemption – Persistence, hope, and reclaiming freedom in a world built to break you.The Big Lebowski – Absurdity, detachment, and existential humor through the lens of a dude and his rug.Manon's PicksMoulin Rouge! – Doomed love, emotional overload, and oxytocin-fueled escapism in a visual fever dream.Interview with the Vampire – Guilt, repression, and eternal existential dread wrapped in a gothic horror.Addams Family Values – Satire, nonconformity, and radical authenticity in the face of cultural erasure.Each film is unpacked for its psychological resonance—whether it’s identity crisis, attachment theory, memory formation, or radical acceptance.Despite wildly different genres and tones, all six films share universal psychological roots—resilience, transformation, and the search for meaning. These favorites act as mirrors of the self, reflecting where we’ve been and where we’re going.Mike and Manon wrap with a warm invitation to join the conversation:💬 What movie lives in your bones?💌 DM your comfort rewatches & character soulmates.👀 Next episode preview: Dive into the mind of a psychopath with true crime stories and clinical insights.🧠 Segment 1: The Psychology of Movie Love [02:45 – 15:00]🎞️ Segment 2: Mike & Manon’s Top 3 Films (with Psychological Tie-Ins) [15:00 – 35:00]🔄 Segment 3: Common Threads & Closing Thoughts [35:00 – 38:00]📢 Outro & Call to Action [38:00 – 40:00]

Keywords: pets, emotional connection, attachment theory, human-animal bond, grief, child development, pet therapy, oxytocin, dopamine, mental healthsummaryThis episode explores the profound emotional connections we share with our pets, delving into the science behind the human-animal bond, attachment styles, and the impact of pets on our mental health and child development. It also addresses the grief experienced when losing a pet and how these relationships can serve as emotional support and social bridges.takeawaysThe bond between humans and pets is deeply emotional and scientifically backed.Oxytocin and dopamine are released during interactions with pets, enhancing our mood.Attachment styles influence how we relate to pets and humans alike.Pets can serve as primary attachment figures for those lacking secure human bonds.Children with pets tend to develop higher empathy and emotional regulation.Pets provide nonverbal companionship, especially beneficial for neurodivergent individuals.Grief from losing a pet can be as intense as losing a human loved one.Pets can help us form social connections and friendships.The presence of pets can reduce stress and improve mental health.Pets ask for little but give us immense emotional support."Pets are better in some ways, right?""Pets can act as attachment figures.""Pets help us meet new friends."Sound BitesChapters00:00The Power of Connection with Pets02:18The Science Behind Human-Animal Bonds05:31Understanding Attachment Styles and Pets09:53The Role of Pets in Emotional Healing15:30The Psychology of Pet Ownership18:21Physical Health Benefits of Pet Ownership20:50Pets and Neurodivergent Individuals25:38The Impact of Grieving a Pet

In this powerful episode of Planting Thoughts, host Mike opens with the true story of Jonah—a boy once labeled as "withdrawn" in preschool who went on to publish in a major optics journal by age 15. Diagnosed with autism, Jonah's journey sets the tone for an episode that challenges conventional views of neurodivergence.Titled “Different, Not Less,” this episode dives deep into what autism really is—not a disease, but a neurological difference that shapes perception, thought, and interaction. Mike breaks down outdated labels like “high” or “low” functioning, replacing them with a more humane, accurate view based on support needs and lived experience.In Segment 2, we explore cutting-edge science—from brain structure differences and local hyperconnectivity to prenatal risk factors and shared genetic signatures. A special guest, Manon, joins to share what it’s like growing up autistic in a world built for neurotypicals.The episode also confronts myths and media narratives head-on—especially the dangerous and false link between autism and violence. Backed by a wealth of research, Mike exposes how autistic individuals are far more likely to be victims, not perpetrators, of abuse and harm.But it’s not all challenges—autism brings profound strengths. From hyperfocus and pattern recognition to creative and ethical thinking, this episode celebrates the “superpowers” of neurodivergent minds.With a passionate blend of science, personal storytelling, and a call for societal change, “Different, Not Less” is a compelling listen for anyone seeking to better understand the richness of human neurodiversity.Key Topics Covered:The real definition of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)Brain structure, genetics, and environmental factorsCommon myths, media misrepresentation, and abuse risksStrengths of autistic cognition and ethical reasoningManon’s story of self-discovery and resilienceAggression myths, co-occurring conditions, and evidence-based interventionsQuote to Remember:“Autism does not equal violence. Autism equals difference. And difference requires understanding, not fear.”Call to Action:If this episode moved you, take 10 seconds to rate, review, and share. Start a conversation. Plant a thought. Open a mind.Would you like a short version of this for social media promotion too?

In this insightful episode, Mike takes listeners on a deep dive into the science and psychology of attraction. From brain chemicals to cultural norms, he breaks down the forces that shape desire—and why we fall for the people we do (even when they text "lol" and nothing else).Key Segments:Brain Chemistry & Love: Attraction activates the same brain areas as cocaine. (Yes, really.)Facial Symmetry & Confidence: Your brain is drawn to balance, but confidence steals the show.Emotional Chemistry: Deep conversations (like Aron’s 36 Questions) create real connection.Cultural Influence & Social Proof: What’s hot is heavily shaped by where—and who—you’re around.Psych Tricks to Boost Attractiveness: Be warm, competent, funny, and most of all, real.Red Flags to Watch For: When they’re “too busy,” but never for Instagram.Keeping the Spark Alive: Novelty, emotional responsiveness, a dash of mystery, and mutual growth = lasting attraction.Final Takeaway:Attraction isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. The most magnetic people are curious, kind, and fully themselves.

Ah, the sound of the modern battlefield: the morning commute. Welcome back to Planting Thoughts, where we usually explore mindfulness, joy, and inner peace—but this week, we’re trading “zen” for “zoom” and diving headfirst into the raw, unfiltered emotion that is road rage.In this fiery and fast-paced episode, Mike kicks things off with some hilariously dramatic shouting from behind the wheel (yes, bleeped for your safety), before pulling the car over—figuratively—and walking us through the real psychology behind our traffic-induced tantrums.We explore:The Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis and why getting cut off feels so personalHow stress, deindividuation, and attribution bias fuel our furyThe surprising ways your personality traits—like neuroticism or conscientiousness—might affect how you react on the roadYou'll also hear two powerful and relatable stories from our guests, who share their own red-light moments, the emotional fallout, and what they’ve learned about themselves along the way.Mike balances the chaos with real solutions, offering practical tips to chill behind the wheel, from mindfulness to cognitive reframing—and even a shoutout to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for those who feel their anger’s driving them a little too far.🚗 Fasten your seatbelt.😤 Take a deep breath (if you're not stuck in gridlock).🧠 And get ready to explore the psychology of why that guy in the minivan made you scream today.Whether you're a road warrior, a passive passenger, or someone who’s screamed at a roundabout once or twice (no judgment), this episode will have you laughing, learning, and maybe even cooling off the next time someone forgets to use their blinker.

In this episode of Planting Thoughts, host Mike explores the powerful link between laughter and happiness, diving into the science of positive psychology and laughter yoga. Laughter is more than just a feel-good experience; it triggers the release of endorphins, reduces stress hormones like cortisol, and fosters social bonds through the release of oxytocin. Studies reveal laughter's potential to boost mood, enhance relationships, and even improve cognitive function.Mike delves into the concept of laughter yoga, a practice combining laughter with yoga poses and breathing exercises, first introduced by Dr. Madan Kataria in 1995. Research shows that laughter yoga can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, strengthen social well-being, and build resilience against stress.Mike shares his personal experience starting a laughter club at his school, which helped students bond and relieve stress, proving how laughter can create powerful connections. He also interviews Chloe and Baillie, co-presidents of the laughter club, who share their own transformative experiences.Beyond laughter, Mike discusses other elements of positive psychology that can enhance well-being, including mindfulness, gratitude, and flow. However, he also touches on criticisms of positive psychology, noting that an overemphasis on happiness might neglect negative emotions and the role of adversity in personal growth.The episode encourages listeners to incorporate laughter and positive psychology practices into their lives for a happier, more fulfilling existence, while acknowledging the complexity of well-being.

In this episode, we dive deep into the brain science behind our obsession with social media and video games. Why can’t we put down our phones or stop playing just one more level? It’s all about dopamine—the brain's feel-good neurotransmitter, which fuels the endless cycle of rewards that keep us hooked. From the unpredictable “hits” of likes and loot boxes to the infinite scroll and FOMO, we break down how these platforms are designed to trigger our brains’ reward system and make us crave more. But it’s not all fun and games—excessive screen time is linked to anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and even addiction. Tune in to understand why these digital habits are so hard to break, and what the science says about the impact on our mental health and relationships. Ready to break the cycle? Let’s dig in!

In this episode of Planting Thoughts, host Mike dives deep into the psychology of passion and why pursuing what excites us is so fulfilling. Through fascinating research and real-life stories, Mike uncovers the brain science behind passion, examining how it shapes our lives and motivates us to succeed. He discusses the difference between harmonious passion, which enriches our lives, and obsessive passion, which can lead to stress and burnout. Guests Nick and Dylan share their personal experiences with their passions for coding, math, skateboarding, and stop-motion videos, offering valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and staying motivated.Mike also explores how our culture's obsession with endless goals may not always lead to happiness, and how focusing on intrinsic motivations—such as personal growth or helping others—can lead to a deeper sense of life satisfaction. Whether you're navigating your own passions or just seeking inspiration, this episode offers an enlightening perspective on why passion, not perfection, is the true key to a fulfilling life.

In this episode of Planting Thoughts, host Mike explores the profound impact of father-daughter relationships with his daughters, Haley and Madalyn. They discuss the importance of emotional availability, involvement, and positive reinforcement in shaping a daughter's self-esteem and confidence. Through personal stories and insights from psychology, they highlight how quality time, humor, and open communication can strengthen these bonds. The conversation emphasizes the lasting influence fathers have on their daughters' lives and the significance of creating meaningful memories together.

In this mind-bending episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of gullibility. What makes us believe the unbelievable? From social influence to cognitive biases, we’ll explore the hidden psychological forces that can trick even the sharpest minds. But that’s not all—stick around for a special story that will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about trust and deception. Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the human mind—where the line between truth and trickery is often thinner than you think!