Hidden Brain
Hidden Brain, Shankar VedantamWhy do I feel stuck? How can I become more creative? What can I do to improve my relationships? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, you’re not alone. On Hidden Brain, we help you understand your own mind — and the minds of the people around you. (We're routinely rated the #1 science podcast in the United States.) Hosted by veteran science journalist Shankar Vedantam.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 696 | Founded | 11 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Performing ArtsSocial SciencesArtsScience | |||
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Latest Episodes
Last week, we talked with psychologist Lisa Miller about the science of spirituality. Today, we explore what those ideas can look like in everyday life. Miller explains why moments of connection, spiritual practices, and even periods of suffering can... more
Food, safety, and strong relationships are essential to our survival. Psychologist Lisa Miller says our brains also crave something else: transcendence. She suggests that spirituality is a universal human capacity, and that feeling connected to somet... more
Why does one bad experience have the power to overshadow an otherwise good day? Psychologist Alison Ledgerwood explores the negativity bias, the deeply human tendency to hold on to what went wrong and overlook what went right. She explains why our mi... more
We all have moments in our lives when we see someone who could use a helping hand. It could be a friend who recently went through a breakup, or an older person trying to load groceries into their car. We tell ourselves we should help, but then someth... more
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Reviews
- Enlightenment
Love the podcast, Shankar’s guests are so personable in addition to being expert. His questions are measured, logical and sometimes humorous. Shankar’s tone is perfect and sincere. Big fan!
Suggest the subject of aging as a figure topic.
Apple Podcasts5macvan06
United States24 days ago - Good show bad ads
I like the show but I’ve unfollowed it because of the ads it runs. Especially the ads for TikTok.
Apple Podcasts3Duke CrumUnited Statesa month ago - This has gone from good to great.
Back at the beginning I almost deleted the pod because that guy, Daniel Pink, had a manner that made the show too gimmicky. But suddenly he left and it changed - got deeper, more thoughtful. Now I can't wait to hear the next episode. This has become a really important podcast - educationally and culturally - that I recommend to all my friends. I think it might save lives and marriages and other relationships. It’s so educational and goodhearted. And that “My Unsung Hero” is just the best.
Apple Podcasts4StellaMacyUnited Statesa month ago - Best editing work!
Thank you Editing Team, Shankar, Writers, Researchers, etc! I really enjoy how the shows were edited. The music, breaks, to the point, the buildup - so clean and easy. Of course it helps that Shankar has a soothing voice. BTW, this is my first ever review for a podcast.
Apple Podcasts5shanshan :)United States2 months ago - Love ❤️ My Favourite Podcast🥰
Dependably interesting. Shankar has the best podcast voice! Topics are awesome. Just love this show
One year later and this continues to be true.
Apple Podcasts520Smith
Canada2 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Spotify | #180 | United States/Top Podcasts |
Spotify | #4 | United States/Science |
Spotify | #143 | United States/Trending |
Apple Podcasts | #98 | United States/Top Podcasts |
Apple Podcasts | #1 | United States/Science/Social Sciences |
Apple Podcasts | #2 | United States/Science |
Talking Points
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hidden Brain
What is Hidden Brain about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Thoughtful conversations grounded in behavioral science explore why people think, feel, and act the way they do. Episodes frequently feature psychologists, economists, historians, and policy researchers who unpack topics like self-disclosure, happiness, leadership, group dynamics, and decision making. Across formats, expect data-driven insights, real-world experiments, and practical guidance for personal growth, healthier relationships, and more effective organizations. A standout aspect is the rigorous use of research and expert perspectives to illuminate everyday psychology, often framed with compelling stories and accessible explanations. If you're curious about the science behind human behavior and how to apply it to work, life, and rel... more
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How many listeners does Hidden Brain get?
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How many subscribers and views does Hidden Brain have?
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Which podcasts are similar to Hidden Brain?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Hidden Brain:
1. Radiolab
2. This American Life
3. TED Radio Hour
4. Freakonomics Radio
5. Fresh Air
How many episodes of Hidden Brain are there?
Hidden Brain launched 11 years ago and published 696 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Hidden Brain?
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What guests have appeared on Hidden Brain?
Recent guests on Hidden Brain include:
1. Lisa Miller
2. Alison Ledgerwood
3. Gary Knight
4. Amit Kumar
5. Eric Oliver
6. Scott Barry Kaufman
7. Ap Dijksterhuis
8. Joseph Henrich
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.