Planting Thoughts

Follow us on:Instagram: @planting_thoughts_podcast YouTube: @plantingthoughtsAre you secretly waiting for someone to expose you as a fraud? You’re not alone. This video cuts through the noise and dives into the decades of peer-reviewed research on the Imposter Phenomenon (it's much more than just low confidence!). We’ll expose the psychological mechanisms that keep you stuck and, most importantly, give you three concrete, science-backed practices you can start tonight to rewire your response.🔍 Keywords: psychology podcast | human behavior | moral psychology | cognitive biases | social psychology | mental health science | Planting Thoughts podcast | psychology explained | funny psychology podcast🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn:The Origins and Reality: The Impostor Phenomenon was first studied by researchers in 1978 in accomplished women, and modern meta-analyses show that an estimated 20-50% of high-achievers across all fields (tech, medicine, academia) experience these feelings. We discuss why this isn't a "me" problem, but a well-studied pattern, and why the label "syndrome" can sometimes distract from systemic issues.The Three Engine Blocks of Imposter Syndrome: We break down the three research-backed mechanisms that keep the feeling alive: Perfectionism (and setting maladaptive standards), Attributional Styles (crediting success to luck, not effort), and Social Comparison (misinterpreting sparse feedback). We show you the research that links high personal standards to feelings of being an imposter.Three Evidence-Backed Interventions: Discover the powerful moves that actually work. First, Self-Compassion Practice (studies on Mindful Self-Compassion show significant well-being boosts). Second, Attribution Retraining (using CBT techniques to challenge "luck" and build an "Evidence File"). Third, Social Calibration & Mentorship (how external, accurate feedback reduces isolation).Your Action Plan: Get our easy, three-line rebuttal script for when the imposter thought hits: Name it, Evidence Check, and a Self-Compassion Line ("I’m allowed to learn. Mistakes don’t erase competence."). Plus, we reveal two bonus micro-habits (Micro-failure logging and the Affirmation-plus-evidence ritual) to cement your new competence identity.Ready to stop feeling like a fraud and start owning your accomplishments? Hit play!#impostersyndrome #selfcompassion #psychology #personaldevelopment #mindfulness #successtips #mentalhealth

Welcome back to Planting Thoughts, the podcast where we dig into the big questions, explore today’s trends, and plant a seed that keeps growing long after you’ve hit pause. 🌱This episode cuts through the haze—literally. Behind the mango clouds and slick marketing lies one of the most psychologically engineered addictions of our time.Mike unpacks:💸 The multi-billion-dollar psychology behind vape marketing🧠 How “less harmful” became a sales pitch instead of a truth💀 The mental and physical cost of nicotine addiction in 2025🔬 The rise of synthetic THC vapes (THCP, THCH) and the real risks no one’s talking about🧯 And why “flavored freedom” might be the biggest scam of the decadeIf you’ve ever wondered whether vaping is really safer—or just marketed that way—this episode brings the facts, the science, and the uncomfortable truths.Moral takeaway: When billion-dollar industries sell “wellness” in cotton-candy flavor, it’s time to check who’s profiting from your breath.🎙️ Planting Thoughts with Mike — new episodes every week.#PlantingThoughtsPodcast #VapingUnfiltered #PsychologyOfAddiction #HealthAndMind #VapeAwareness #NicotineAddiction #THCP #THCH #SocialPsychology #MindfulMedia #PodcastCommunity #MentalHealthAwareness #ScienceOverHype

In this solo deep-dive, Mike breaks down one of psychology’s most viral topics — Attachment Theory — and how it quietly shapes every relationship you’ve ever had.From the calm confidence of the securely attached to the chaos of the disorganized, this episode unpacks the science behind why we chase, why we run, and why love feels so familiar… even when it hurts.You’ll learn:The four core attachment styles and how they formThe real difference between love and dependencyHow to move toward earned security — the rarest (and healthiest) bondWhy anxious, avoidant, and disorganized people attract each other in modern datingBacked by decades of peer-reviewed research and brought to life through real-world insight, this isn’t pop-psych fluff — it’s your roadmap to finally understanding your patterns.🧠 If you’ve ever wondered why you fall for the same kind of person again and again… this episode connects the dots.#AttachmentTheory #PsychologyOfLove #PlantingThoughtsPodcast

Host: MikeEpisode Length: ~15 minutesCategory: Science • Psychology • SocietyIn this episode of Planting Thoughts, Mike dives deep into the neuroscience and psychology of gender identity—separating scientific fact from political fiction.We unpack what peer-reviewed research says about the brains of transgender people, explore how hormones and neural connectivity adapt during transition, and discuss the psychological concept of minority stress—how discrimination, not identity, drives distress.This episode goes beyond talking points to show how empathy, data, and humanity align.Neuroimaging Studies: Brain regions involved in self-perception and gender identityHormone Therapy & the Brain: Structural and functional neural changesPsychology of Gender Identity: What the APA and global research actually defineMinority Stress Theory: Why discrimination—not identity—causes higher anxiety and depressionReal-World Impacts: From affirming care to dehumanizing policy rhetoricWhat Science Recommends: Evidence-based support for mental health and inclusionGuillamon et al., NeuroImage: Clinical (2021) – Brain structure in transgender individualsSmith et al., JAMA Network Open (2023) – Adolescent brain imaging and gender diversityHendricks & Testa (2012), American Journal of Public Health – Minority Stress Model in transgender populationsColizzi et al. (2016), Psychoneuroendocrinology – Effects of hormone therapy on brain structureReisner et al. (2016), The Lancet – Global mental health outcomes and access to affirming care“Reducing gender to chromosomes is like saying Beethoven’s 9th Symphony is just air vibrations.”“Science is complex; rhetoric is loud. And loud doesn’t mean right.”“When society supports its most vulnerable, everyone flourishes.”If this episode resonated, share it, rate it, and help plant more seeds of empathy and evidence.Next week: The Psychology of Teen Vaping — How Industries Hack the Adolescent Brain.#TransgenderScience #GenderIdentity #Neuroscience #PsychologyPodcast #TransRightsAreHumanRights #ScienceOverRhetoric #LGBTQEducation #TransAwareness #BrainBlossomsPodcast #TransgenderFacts #NeuroDiversity #InclusiveScience #MindAndIdentity #TransResearch #EmpathyAndEvidence #SocialPsychology #TransSupport #PrideAndScience #UnderstandingGender #MikeTalksScience

📘 Episode Description (Show Notes):Why do we become emotionally attached to our favorite snacks? Why does one person call Goldfish an S-tier comfort food while another swears that Takis should be banned from planet Earth? In today’s episode, we taste-test our all-time favorite snacks live while diving into the psychological science of preferences, cravings, nostalgia, and reward systems in the brain.We rank everything in a full tier list while breaking down:Why familiarity shapes what we call “our favorite”The dopamine loop behind snackingHow childhood memories affect taste perceptionWhy you get irrationally angry when someone hates your favorite snackThis is part science, part chaos, and 100% S-tier entertainment.🎧 Stick around to see which snacks made God Tier… and which got canceled.00:00 – Intro: Why snacks reveal your psychology02:30 – The Brain Science of Preferences (Dopamine & Memory)07:15 – Snack #1 Taste Test (Immediate debate erupts)12:45 – Tier List Begins (Comfort vs. Craving Psychology)19:00 – Why We Hate Change: The Familiarity Effect24:30 – The Great Chocolate Controversy32:00 – Final Rankings & What Your Favorite Snack Says About You38:20 – Listener Challenge: Submit your S-tier snack!Mere Exposure Effect (why repeated foods become favorites)Dopamine Reward PathwayNostalgia & Emotional MemorySensory-Specific SatietyIdentity Signaling Through TasteComment your rankings to get featured in the next episode!Comment your favorite snack and why you think you love it. Is it flavor? A childhood memory? Emotional support?We’ll read the best ones in the next episode!psychology of taste, why we have favorite foods, snack tier list, best snack ranking, food cravings explained, dopamine and food, psychology podcast, tier list debate, snack taste test, why we love snacks#TierList #SnackRanking #FoodPsychology #FavoriteFoods #TasteTest #PsychologyPodcast #Dopamine #Nostalgia #BrainScience #SatisfyingSnacks

🌱 Grow Your Brain: Neuroplasticity 101 | Planting Thoughts Your brain is not fixed — it’s flexible, rewiring itself every day based on what you focus on. In this episode, you’ll learn how neuroplasticity works, how to train it, and how to rewire your brain in 30 days using proven neuroscience.Neuroplasticity explained: how your brain physically changes when you learnWhy repetition, emotion, and sleep drive brain rewiringThe basketball effect: how athletes train their brains, not just bodies2 learning hacks backed by science: spaced repetition & microlearningEmerging brain tech: tDCS, sleep learning, psychedelics & critical-period reopening30-Day Brain Rewire Plan you can start today0:00 – Intro: You can grow your brain1:15 – Neuroplasticity science (taxi driver study)3:00 – Fire together, wire together (basketball example)4:20 – Learning hacks that work6:00 – Emotional neuroplasticity & mindfulness7:30 – Weird frontier: future brain growth tech9:00 – 30-day rewire plan & challengePick ONE skill, habit, or mindset. Practice it daily for 15 minutes using spaced repetition + visualization + sleep. Track wins for 30 days = new neural pathway installed. Key Concpets:London taxi drivers: hippocampal growth (Maguire et al., PNAS, 2000)Spaced repetition: 30–50% retention improvement (Cepeda et al., Psych. Science, 2006)Sleep reactivation: memory consolidation (Northwestern, 2019)Motor imagery activates same circuits as movement (Journal of Neurophysiology)#Neuroplasticity #GrowYourBrain #BrainHacks #LearnFaster #30DayChallenge #MentalTraining #MemoryScienceneuroplasticity, how to rewire your brain, brain growth, spaced repetition, learn faster, brain plasticity, 30 day brain challenge, memory science, brain rewiring

Description:What happens when psychedelics move from the underground to the therapist’s office? In this episode, Mike unpacks the real research behind psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine — the so-called “breakthrough” treatments for depression, PTSD, and trauma.Forget the festival folklore — we’re talking Nature Medicine, JAMA Psychiatry, and NEJM studies that are changing how scientists think about healing the brain. From rewiring rigid thought loops to boosting neuroplasticity, these substances might just teach the mind to loosen up — safely, and under medical supervision.Along the way:The MDMA + therapy trials that helped PTSD patients reclaim their livesPsilocybin’s rapid antidepressant effects and what makes guided sessions so powerfulKetamine and esketamine — how anesthetics became one of psychiatry’s fastest-acting treatmentsWhy microdosing hype doesn’t match placebo-controlled dataAnd why science, not rhetoric, should guide the psychedelic renaissanceBecause the brain deserves more than buzzwords — it deserves evidence (and maybe a sense of humor).Key Studies Mentioned:Mitchell et al., Nature Medicine (2021) — MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSDDavis et al., JAMA Psychiatry (2020) — Psilocybin therapy for major depressionCarhart-Harris et al., PNAS (2014) — Brain network changes under psilocybinLy et al., Cell Reports (2018) — Psychedelics and neuroplasticityBiological Psychiatry (2022) — Ketamine and esketamine for treatment-resistant depressioneLife (2021) — Microdosing and the placebo problemEpisode length: ~9 minutesHost: Mike — Planting Thoughts / Brain Blossoms🎧 Listen, learn, and keep your skepticism stylish.

Ever wondered why smart, ordinary people end up in destructive cults? In this episode, Mike and Manon dig into the psychology of cults—why people join, why they stay, and how modern groups like NXIVM use timeless brain hacks to recruit and retain members.We cover:Milgram’s obedience studies, Asch’s conformity experiments, and the classic “foot-in-the-door” effect.Why prophecy failures often make believers double down instead of walk away.Scientology’s controversial status: cult or religion? What the research and courts say.NXIVM’s corporate cult tactics and the psychology of branding, collateral, and coercion.Heaven’s Gate and Aum Shinrikyo as chilling case studies of apocalyptic control.Rick Alan Ross’s Nine Characteristics of Cults (Cults Inside Out)—a handy checklist for spotting red flags.The deep psychology of why people stay: belongingness, sunk costs, trauma bonding, bounded choice, and intermittent reinforcement.

Feeling anxious? In this quick 5-minute Brain Blossom, Mike guides you through a simple but powerful breathing technique that can calm your nervous system in under a minute. Backed by neuroscience and rooted in ancient wisdom, this “Mindful Minute: Breath to Reset” shows how the breath acts like a remote control for your brain — flipping you from stress mode into calm focus.You’ll learn:Why controlled breathing lowers anxiety and boosts focusHow to do the 4–4–6–4 breathing exercise in real timeThe science of vagus nerve activation and heart rate variabilityHow breath connects ancient yoga traditions with modern psychologyThree powerful practices (mindfulness, CBT, VR therapy) to pair with breathing✨ A small habit with a big payoff: use this anytime anxiety spikes.🎧 Listen now and take a calm reset — right where you are.

In this solo episode, Mike dives deep into the world of drugs, addiction, and the culture surrounding them. From brain chemistry to Hollywood glamorization, this conversation unpacks the science, psychology, and real-life consequences of substance use.What you’ll hear in this episode:🎯 Addiction & the Brain — how dopamine, memory, stress, and reinforcement learning wire us to crave.🧠 Behavioral Traps — conditioning, cognitive biases, and why relapse is so common.💊 Drug Categories — opioids, depressants, stimulants, psychedelics — the highs, the risks, and the myths.🔥 Teen Drug Trends — Delta-8, THC-P, kratom, vapes, energy drinks, and what makes them so appealing (and dangerous).⚠️ Nitazenes & Prescription Misuse — fentanyl’s “evil cousin” and the rise of ADHD stimulant misuse.👨‍👩‍👦 Personal Story — Mike’s family history with addiction and why he left counseling for education.🎬 Hollywood & Music — how culture glamorizes drugs and the tragic reality behind the curtain.🍻 Alcohol & Party Culture — why alcohol is the most underestimated drug for teens and college students.Key Message:Addiction isn’t about weakness — it’s about biology, psychology, and culture colliding. With the right information, we can replace stigma with understanding and help people make informed choices.👉 If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. Stay curious, protect your brain, and take care of yourself.

Brain Blossoms – Episode 1: Anxiety UnlockedIn this debut mini-episode of Brain Blossoms—the quick, 5–7 minute sibling podcast to Planting Thoughts—Mike breaks down anxiety in a way that’s relatable, research-backed, and even a little funny. From flat tires to racing thoughts, you’ll learn what anxiety really is, how it hijacks your brain, and why your nervous system sometimes acts like a drama queen. Backed by cutting-edge studies, Mike explores mindfulness, CBT, breathing techniques, and even virtual reality therapy as tools for calmer thinking.Perfect for curious minds who want fast, science-based insights without the jargon.#psychology #podcast #anxiety #relaxation #plantingthoughts

SummaryIn this episode of Planting Thoughts, the host delves into the intriguing world of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) and its psychological implications. The conversation explores the science behind ASMR, its effects on relaxation and mood, and the contrasting phenomenon of misophonia, where certain sounds trigger negative emotional responses. The discussion also touches on the cultural significance of ASMR, its applications in coping with overstimulation, and related sensory experiences like frisson and flow states. The episode concludes with a reflection on the fascinating complexities of sensory psychology and its impact on our daily lives.TakeawaysASMR is a real phenomenon that can induce relaxation and improve mood.The science behind ASMR involves measurable brain and body changes.Not everyone experiences ASMR; individual differences in brain connectivity play a role.Misophonia is a condition where certain sounds trigger intense negative emotions.ASMR can be used as a coping mechanism for overstimulation in daily life.The popularity of ASMR content on platforms like YouTube reflects its cultural significance.ASMR and frisson are related but distinct sensory experiences.Personality traits like openness and neuroticism may influence ASMR sensitivity.ASMR can help with sleep, but over-reliance may lead to negative consequences.The exploration of sensory psychology reveals the complexities of human perception and emotional response.Sound bites"ASMR is more relaxing than nature clips.""ASMR helps with stress, sleep, and mood.""ASMR has cousins, for example frisson."KeywordsASMR, Misophonia, psychology, relaxation, sensory experience, brain science, emotional response, sound sensitivity, mental health, popular cultureChapters00:00 Introduction to ASMR and Misophonia00:46 Understanding ASMR: Science and Sensation04:54 The Psychological Effects of ASMR08:21 ASMR in Popular Culture and Its Uses10:20 The Dark Side of ASMR: Risks and Misophonia12:49 Exploring Related Sensory Phenomena15:02 Conclusion: The Fascinating World of Sensory Psychology16:52 Borough

In this episode of Planting Thoughts, Mike and Manon tackle one of the most universal struggles of modern life—overthinking. Why does your brain replay conversations on loop? Why do “what if” scenarios hijack your sleep? And most importantly—how do you stop?Together, the co-hosts dig into the science of anxiety and rumination from multiple perspectives:Evolutionary psychology – how an overactive threat system once kept us safe from predators but now flares up over emails and text messages.Neuroscience – why the Default Mode Network and amygdala fuel mental spirals.Behaviorism & cognitive science – how learned avoidance and distorted thinking patterns keep the loop alive.Sociocultural influences – how social media, comparison, and perfectionism amplify worry.The episode also explores the common personality traits of overthinkers—people-pleasing, oversharing, conflict avoidance, perfectionism—and how these tendencies interact with the science of anxiety. Special attention is given to overthinking in children, with early warning signs and prevention strategies for parents.To balance the science, Mike and Manon turn to Buddhist philosophy—impermanence, non-attachment, compassion, and mindfulness—as powerful tools for letting go of mental clutter. Along the way, you’ll hear witty banter, relatable confessions, and a guest’s personal story of navigating life as a chronic overthinker.From practical strategies like journaling, CBT, mindfulness meditation, and worry scheduling, to the timeless wisdom of Eastern philosophy, this episode plants the seeds of self-awareness and equips listeners with tools to step out of the spiral.Takeaway: Your thoughts are not facts. You can notice them, let them pass, and choose where to place your attention.Join the millions already listening—follow Planting Thoughts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and share this episode with the fellow overthinkers in your life.

In this deeply personal and research-driven episode, Mike and Manon explore the emotional and psychological realities of living with terminal illness, caring for those facing it, and grieving their loss. Using the lens of psychological research and lived experiences, they unpack the complexity of grief — from the Kübler-Ross model to anticipatory grief, complicated grief, and the Dual Process Model.Special guest Ruthan shares her story of living with a stage 4 cancer diagnosis, offering raw insights into the emotional, spiritual, and practical shifts that come with it. Mike and Manon then turn their focus to astrocytomas and glioblastomas, revealing their devastating impact and the sobering statistics behind these brain cancers.They also spotlight the fight against childhood cancer — from promising breakthroughs like CAR-T cell therapy and genomic targeting to the urgent need for more funding, as only 4% of the NCI’s budget is allocated to pediatric cancer.This episode blends science, statistics, and heartfelt storytelling to remind us that ending cancer is about more than curing the disease — it’s about protecting dignity, relationships, and the human spirit.Topics covered:The real-life application and limits of the Kübler-Ross modelAnticipatory grief and its effects on caregiversComplicated grief and attachment theory findingsRuthan’s lived experience with stage 4 cancerThe medical and psychological toll of astrocytomas and glioblastomasThe urgent fight against pediatric cancer and recent research advancesListen if you want to:Understand the psychology of grief beyond the textbook stagesHear powerful first-person accounts of living with terminal illnessLearn about underfunded but promising areas of cancer research

🎙 “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