The idea that you are a blend of the 5 people you spend time with has a dangerous side. In fact, it's not exactly true.
In this episode, I break down why the Growth Mindset is actually about autonomy, not assimilation. I share the story of my best friend Laurie—a guy with zero ambition who taught me how to relax and actually saved my career during burnout.
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Jan 13
Life's Infinite Games: How to play by your own rules
What if the game you're playing isn't yours? Every moment of your life, something is at stake. Ignore your partner, they feel less loved. Choose status over meaning, you'll need a therapist. We inherit these games—LinkedIn profiles that read like eager cover letters, news consump ... Show More
23m 10s
Jun 2024
Silent Minds: How Life Changes Without an Inner Monologue w/John R. Miles EP 468
<p>Do you have a voice that constantly speaks to you throughout the day? For most people, the answer is 'Yes.' This inner voice aids in decision-making, problem-solving, and self-reflection. However, some people live without this inner monologue, a phenomenon called anendophasia. ... Show More
23m 18s
May 2025
100: Mailbag: An Embarrassment of Riches
<p>Abby, Patrick, and Dan mark one hundred episodes of Ordinary Unhappiness! They start by looking back on the show’s run so far, and what they’ve gotten from engaging with psychoanalysis as a living body of knowledge, as a corpus of classic texts, as a way of seeing the world, a ... Show More
1h 30m
Sep 2024
10 Philosophy-Inspired Challenges for Becoming a Better and Happier Man
<p>Although they may call it different things and approach its attainment in different ways, many of the world’s religions and philosophies have a similar goal: achieving a life of virtue, peace, and flourishing.</p><p>In his new book, <a href="https://amzn.to/4cSdial" target="_b ... Show More
49m 43s
Aug 2025
Most Replayed Moment: Alain de Botton - Individualism Is Making Us Miserable!
Alain de Botton is a philosopher, author, and the founder of The School of Life. He is known for his insights into the intersection of philosophy, love, and the modern world, often exploring how societal structures impact mental well-being. In today’s Moments episode, Alain explo ... Show More
19m 13s
<p>In Touch with Tommy 35<br><br></p><p>“Why not me” miracles, in the shower smell a flower, charge it to the game, change your game, homesickness, hey, first paid podcast editing job, certified classic birthday day, dominate Dinucci, who’s on first? Me.<br><br></p><p>#87<br><br ... Show More