Growth Minds with Sean Kim

Dr. Neal Barnard is a physician, clinical researcher, and founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). He is a leading advocate for plant-based nutrition and has conducted groundbreaking studies on how diet affects diabetes, heart disease, and brain health. Dr. Barnard is the author of numerous bestselling books, including The Power Foods for the Brain and Your Body in Balance. Through his research and public education efforts, he has become one of the most influential voices in promoting evidence-based, compassionate nutrition.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Misconceptions and origins of the plant-based diet
(02:24) – Early exposure to heart disease and meat connection
(05:11) – Discovery that plant-based diets reverse diabetes
(06:07) – Portion control vs. natural body regulation
(07:38) – Humans as plant-eaters, not natural carnivores
(08:53) – Stone Age tools enabled unnatural meat consumption
(10:22) – Returning to plant-based diets improves health
(14:10) – Reversing diseases through diet changes and research
(16:03) – What “plant-based” truly means and typical meals
(17:33) – How fat buildup causes insulin resistance
(18:53) – Three-week vegan diet and diabetes improvement
(20:47) – Why omnivorous diets fail long-term
(21:59) – Clarifying vegan vs. plant-based terminology
(22:31) – Comparing keto and plant-based diet results
(25:12) – Health risks and misconceptions of ketogenic diets
(27:36) – The four pillars of a healthy diet
(29:37) – Environmental and ethical impact of meat consumption
(33:14) – Getting sufficient protein from plants
(35:22) – Shrimp farming ethics and environmental damage
(39:26) – Food production methods vs. health outcomes
(41:31) – Protein intake debates and sarcopenia
(45:03) – Plant protein sources and practical meal ideas
(47:02) – Dining out and global vegan meal options
(49:44) – Supplements: B12, D, iodine, omega-3s
(54:06) – Iron sources and risks of excess iron
(59:33) – Dairy, hormones, and links to cancer
(1:07:06) – Compassion, evolution, and human indifference to animals
(1:13:20) – Cultural and economic factors in diet choices
(1:20:11) – Ethical debates about plants, pain, and life
(1:23:22) – Dr. Barnard’s books and closing reflections

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Richard Shotton is a behavioral science expert, author, and consultant specializing in applying psychological research to marketing and consumer behavior. He is best known for his bestselling books "The Choice Factory" and "The Illusion of Choice", which reveal how insights from behavioral science can influence decision-making and brand success. With over two decades of experience in advertising, Shotton works with leading companies to apply evidence-based strategies that drive real-world results. He is also a sought-after speaker, known for making behavioral science practical, engaging, and actionable.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Who benefits from this conversation and book overview
(00:44) – Behavioral science applied to business and marketing
(01:28) – Psychology principles also shaping personal brands
(02:45) – Focus vs variety: the goal dilution effect
(03:52) – Study showing multiple benefits reduce credibility
(05:27) – Why people trust specialists over generalists
(07:06) – Restaurant and brand examples proving focus wins
(07:54) – Five Guys story: simplicity and specialization
(09:46) – How focus improves both product and perception
(10:39) – Exceptions like Amazon and Google’s success
(12:14) – Why AI brands should emphasize specialization
(17:13) – Applying focus and credibility to personal branding
(18:55) – The Pratfall Effect: admitting flaws builds trust
(21:30) – Using weaknesses to strengthen authenticity
(24:11) – Price perception: high cost implies high quality
(26:22) – Smart ways to admit flaws and gain believability
(27:27) – Case studies: Avis, Buckley’s, and embracing flaws
(31:07) – Kraft’s hidden reformulation and expectation bias
(35:31) – Eco-friendly bias and performance expectations
(38:40) – The Zeigarnik Effect: memory from incomplete tasks
(43:26) – KFC secrecy and Coca-Cola mystery as engagement tools
(45:28) – Illusion of effort: visible work increases perceived value
(49:20) – Transparency in design: Dyson, kitchens, and websites
(54:27) – Behavioral biases as flexible tools for persuasion
(57:01) – Testing ideas ethically through observation
(1:02:43) – Liquid Death and breaking conventions to stand out
(1:07:04) – Repetition and the mere exposure effect
(1:10:40) – False consensus: marketers aren’t their audience
(1:12:18) – Main takeaway: remove barriers, make it easy

Learn more about Richard

Astroten - Richard's Company

Amazon Book Link - Hacking the Human Mind

Choice Factory

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Ellen Langer is a social psychologist and professor at Harvard University, widely regarded as the "mother of mindfulness." Her groundbreaking research explores how mindset influences health, aging, and performance, emphasizing the power of awareness in everyday life. She is the author of several influential books, including Mindfulness and The Mindful Body, which challenge assumptions about control, perception, and well-being. Dr. Langer’s decades of work have transformed how psychology understands the connection between mind and body.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Defining mindlessness: autopilot, past-driven behavior

(00:49) – Mindfulness beyond meditation: simply noticing change

(01:21) – Embrace uncertainty to pay attention

(02:07) – Find novelty in the familiar

(04:29) – Question assumptions; rules change with context

(11:03) – Mind–body unity vs inherited dualism

(14:03) – Placebo shows belief shapes physiology

(15:57) – “Counterclockwise”: mindset rejuvenates aging markers

(17:31) – Reframing work as exercise improves health

(19:35) – Perceived time alters healing and glucose

(22:09) – Fatigue depends on framing and context

(24:31) – Challenge human “limits”; language shapes ability

(28:15) – Prefer mindful imperfection over robotic perfection

(33:27) – Behavior makes sense from actor’s perspective

(36:47) – GLADO: generous, loving, authentic, direct, open

(39:31) – Events are neutral; interpretations create stress

(55:39) – Language reframes: forgive/blame, try/hope, remission/cure

(1:03:47) – Mindful performance elevates art and creativity

(1:07:04) – Keep relationships fresh by noticing change

(1:14:34) – Daily cues: notice, reframe, play, stay curious

Learn more about Dr. Langer:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellen_Langerhttps://psychology.fas.harvard.edu/people/ellen-langer

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim⁠

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex cosmic concepts accessible to the public. He serves as the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Through his books, television appearances, and the podcast StarTalk, Dr. Tyson inspires curiosity about the universe and promotes scientific literacy worldwide. His engaging storytelling and wit have made him one of the most recognizable voices in modern science.

In our conversation we discuss:

(01:08) Mysteries that keep Neil deGrasse Tyson up at night
(03:47) How scientists learn to ask the right questions
(07:14) Philosophy’s role and value in modern science
(10:43) Why philosophers stopped influencing physical sciences
(12:54) Misinterpretations of Neil’s comments on philosophy
(17:03) Becoming famous and public accountability
(21:07) How scientists stay connected and exchange ideas
(24:51) Choosing between teaching, science, and public outreach
(28:14) Current research interests and unsolved astrophysics questions
(30:43) Impact of private space travel on science
(35:16) Relationship between science, politics, and the military
(36:30) Why Elon Musk won’t reach Mars first
(37:49) Future of space tourism and affordability
(41:00) Expanding human presence across the solar system
(47:35) Genetic engineering, ethics, and human evolution
(49:27) Global cooperation and genetic regulation challenges
(52:29) Human–AI integration and Neuralink skepticism
(55:01) Future of robots and human labor
(58:07) Early AI history and the Turing test
(1:02:21) Skills young people need in the AI era
(1:04:09) Teaching curiosity and lifelong learning
(1:07:04) How Neil developed communication and teaching skills
(1:09:37) Creating meaning and purpose in life
(1:11:01) How Neil wants to be remembered
(1:12:53) StarTalk, books, and inspiring public curiosity

Learn more about Dr. Neil:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_deGrasse_Tyson

Watch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankim
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Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris is a neuroscientist and professor of neurology and psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, where he leads the Psychedelics Division. He is internationally recognized for pioneering research on psychedelics, brain function, and mental health. His studies have revealed how substances like psilocybin and LSD can “reset” brain networks and offer therapeutic potential for conditions such as depression and anxiety. Dr. Carhart-Harris is a leading voice in the renaissance of psychedelic science, making groundbreaking neuroscience accessible to both scientific and public audiences.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) Misunderstandings people have about psychedelics
(02:27) Differentiating psychedelics from drugs like ketamine, MDMA
(08:39) Why people group all drugs together
(14:57) History of ancestral use of psychedelics
(21:46) Visions or insights during dark retreat
(23:17) Biohacks for psychedelic experiences without compounds
(29:10) Natural vs synthetic psychedelics and effects
(32:28) Albert Hoffman’s discovery of LSD
(37:45) Findings from legal LSD human studies
(45:55) Comparing SSRIs and psychedelics for depression
(46:27) Clarification on psilocybin as treatment
(48:49) Qualitative vs quantitative measures in trials
(51:34) No difference between SSRIs and psychedelics?
(54:21) Hesitations about psychedelics despite effectiveness
(54:56) Why clinicians hesitate to provide both options
(58:04) Downsides of SSRIs versus psychedelics
(1:03:46) Dependency risk of SSRIs vs psychedelics
(1:07:49) Personality traits suited for SSRIs vs psychedelics
(1:12:54) Microdosing versus single high psychedelic doses
(1:14:48) Placebo or real effects of microdosing
(1:18:57) Brian Johnson’s blueprint and psychedelics
(1:20:32) Psychedelics and potential longevity benefits
(1:26:01) Key takeaway and misconception to forget
(1:29:04) Where to follow for book updates

Learn more about Dr. Robin:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Carhart-Harris
https://profiles.ucsf.edu/robin.carhart-harris
@Carhartharrislab

Watch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankim
Connect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Roman Yampolskiy is a computer scientist, AI researcher, and professor at the University of Louisville, where he directs the Cyber Security Lab. He is widely recognized for his work on artificial intelligence safety, security, and the study of superintelligent systems. Dr. Yampolskiy has authored numerous books and publications, including Artificial Superintelligence: A Futuristic Approach, exploring the risks and safeguards needed as AI capabilities advance. His research and commentary have made him a leading voice in the global conversation on the future of AI and humanity.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:01) Background and path into AI safety
(02:27) Early AI state and containment techniques
(03:43) When did AI’s Pandora’s box open
(04:38) How close is AGI and definition
(07:20) Why AGI definition keeps moving goalposts
(09:25) ASI vs AGI: future five–ten years
(11:12) Measuring ASI: tests and quantification methods
(12:03) Existential threats and broad AI risks
(17:35) Transhumanism: human-AI merging and coexistence
(18:35) Chances and timeline for peaceful coexistence
(21:16) Layers of risk beyond human extinction
(23:55) Can humans retain meaning post-AGI era
(27:41) Jobs AI likely cannot or won’t replace
(29:42) Skills humans are losing to AI reliance
(31:00) Cultivating critical thinking amid AI influence
(33:34) Can nations or corporations meaningfully slow AI
(37:29) Decentralized development: open-source control feasibility
(40:46) Any current models with real safety measures?
(41:12) Has meaning of life changed with AI?
(42:36) Thoughts on simulation hypothesis and implications
(43:58) If AI found simulation: modify or escape?
(44:54) Key takeaway for public about AI safety
(45:26) Is this your core mission in AI safety
(46:14) Where to follow and learn more about you

Learn more about Dr. Roman

Website: https://www.romanyampolskiy.com/
⁠⁠Socials: @RomanYampolskiy⁠⁠

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Emily Balcetis is a social psychologist and associate professor at New York University whose research explores perception, motivation, and decision-making. She is the author of Clearer, Closer, Better: How Successful People See the World, where she reveals how visual strategies can shape goal achievement and behavior. Dr. Balcetis’s work has been featured in major outlets like The New York Times, Forbes, and Harvard Business Review, and she is a sought-after speaker known for translating cutting-edge psychology into practical tools for success.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) — Importance of state of mind when setting goals
(01:09) — Defining a new goal for oneself
(02:23) — Trap of setting overly ambitious goals
(05:31) — Finding the right balance in goal difficulty
(05:31) — Weight loss as an example of balance in goals
(07:57) — Role of willpower and caring in success
(08:44) — Maintaining excitement for big goals with realistic timelines
(12:22) — Motivated brain versus unmotivated brain
(14:30) — Hill-climbing study and motivation through choice
(20:15) — Applying motivational frameworks beyond health and performance
(22:46) — Whether setting fewer goals is beneficial
(26:38) — Research on the sweet spot for number of goals
(31:37) — Testing personal limits for productivity and stress
(36:34) — Relationship between beliefs and reality
(41:51) — Eye-tracking studies in jury decisions and cybersecurity
(47:25) — Common cognitive biases and ways to mitigate them
(52:49) — Midpoint slump in motivation
(58:09) — Dunning–Kruger effect and origins of overconfidence
(60:24) — Role of self-compassion in motivation

Learn more about Dr. EmilyWikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emily_Balcetis

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Prof. Laura Huang is a Distinguished Professor of Management and Organizational Dynamics at Northeastern University, and previously taught at Harvard Business School and the Wharton School. She has been recognized as one of the world’s top 40 business school professors and is a recipient of the 2020 Cozzarelli Prize for scientific originality. She is the author of the bestselling Edge: Turning Adversity into Advantage. Her newest book, You Already Know: The Science of Mastering Your Intuition, was released on July 29, 2025. In it, she presents a groundbreaking, research-based guide to using intuition as a powerful tool for smarter decisions and lasting success.

In our conversation we discuss:
(01:01) – AI reliance and intuition
(01:11) – Gut feeling vs intuition
(03:08) – Human vs animal intuition
(06:03) – Neuralink and future of instincts
(09:14) – Simple vs complex problems
(20:08) – Types of gut feelings
(22:56) – Evolution vs learned instincts
(26:45) – Loss aversion vs gains
(34:04) – Cognitive biases and intuition
(41:07) – Coin flip and loss aversion
(48:54) – Ways to hone intuition
(56:46) – Hard work and success myth
(1:02:31) – Cultural differences in edge
(1:05:07) – Guiding perception vs faking it

Learn more about Prof. Laura Huang

Website: https://www.proflaurahuang.com/

New Book - https://www.amazon.com/You-Already-Know-Mastering-Intuition/dp/0593714768

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Daniel Jones is a psychologist and researcher best known for his expertise in dark personality traits such as narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. He has published widely on how these traits influence relationships, leadership, and society, making complex psychological concepts accessible to the public. Dr. Jones is also a sought-after speaker and educator, often featured in media and podcasts where he discusses the impact of personality on everyday life.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:01) – Spotting psychopaths
(02:13) – Survival context vs psychopathy
(05:19) – Dark triad overview
(10:12) – Prevalence of dark traits
(14:52) – Machiavelli vs Machiavellianism
(18:39) – Influence vs manipulation
(26:36) – Origins: nature vs nurture
(32:30) – Self-awareness of dark traits
(37:39) – Dark traits in leadership
(42:12) – Power tactics and society
(48:36) – Trolley problem basics
(52:48) – Careers suited to dark traits
(1:00:28) – Self-awareness aiding manipulation
(1:04:00) – Dark traits in dating
(1:08:55) – Vetting romantic partners
(1:13:14) – Attraction to high-empathy partners
(1:17:38) – Cutting ties vs expecting change

Learn more about Dr. Daniel

https://www.unr.edu/social-psychology/people/dan-jones

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Rob Henderson is a psychologist, writer, and U.S. Air Force veteran who coined the term “luxury beliefs.” Raised in foster care, he went on to earn a PhD from the University of Cambridge and now writes for major outlets on class, culture, and human behavior. His memoir, Troubled, explores his personal journey and the impact of social class on identity and opportunity.

In our conversation we discuss:
(00:00) – Luxury beliefs defined
(03:10) – Modern examples of beliefs
(09:11) – Changes across history
(15:52) – Where luxury beliefs fit
(17:04) – Skin in the game
(18:59) – Consequences of status over truth
(22:50) – Cancel culture and enforcement
(24:44) – Decline of religion and identity
(28:27) – Turning to politics for meaning
(31:08) – Cultural differences in status signaling
(37:08) – Pressure on young people
(42:42) – Men attracting women today
(46:09) – Exclusion in dating
(50:40) – Polygamy as a luxury belief
(52:53) – Purpose for young men
(56:59) – Self-improvement before relationships
(58:47) – Imposter syndrome experience

Learn more about Rob Henderson

Instagram -  @robkhenderson 

Newsletter - https://www.robkhenderson.com/

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim