Episódios
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Episode 77: The Psychology of Greed | Put Em On The Couch Podcast
In this 77th episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dive deep into the complex and often controversial topic of greed. What drives us to want more—whether it’s wealth, power, or possessions? How does greed shape our happiness, behaviors, and society at large?
We explore:
What is greed and its roots in human nature.The psychology of greed: Is it a personality trait or a temporary emotion?How greed negatively impacts well-being and life satisfaction.Paul Piff’s studies using Monopoly to demonstrate how wealth affects behavior.The upside of greed: Can it fuel capitalism and economic growth?Greed as addiction: How the cycle of acquisition can become never-ending.The impact of greed on society, from greedy billionaires to unethical behaviors.The difference between the desire to acquire versus the fear of losing.This thought-provoking episode unpacks the forces that drive human behavior and the implications of greed—both on a personal and societal level. Don’t miss out on this important conversation!
A Special Thank You & Merry Christmas!As we wrap up the year, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for your continued support. Merry Christmas! May this season bring joy, reflection, and meaningful connections.
Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you. And don’t forget to share this episode with your friends and family—let's keep the conversation going!
Keywords: Greed, Psychology of Greed, Dispositional Greed, Capitalism, Wealth, Monopoly Study, Paul Piff, Behavioral Addiction, Dark Triad, Emotional Instability, Greedy Billionaires, Social Comparison, Happiness, Put Em On The Couch Podcast.
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In Episode 76 of Put Em On The Couch, Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dive into the fascinating spectrum of giving—from the cold, calculating behavior of psychopaths to the boundless generosity of extreme altruists. We explore the psychology behind why we give, what motivates us, and how giving shapes our relationships and society.
Along the way, we discuss Paul Slovin’s research on “warm glow,” the neurobiology of generosity, and whether non-human animals display altruistic behavior. Nelson shares a personal story of the best gift he’s ever given, while we also tackle tough questions: Can giving ever be truly selfless? Why do we expect gift-givers to be mind-readers? And why is giving sometimes more about the giver than the recipient?
Plus, we look at the politics of charitable giving, the costs of bad gifts, and share a story about a friend who gave a kidney to a complete stranger. It’s an episode that will make you rethink what it means to give.
As always, thank you to our amazing listeners! In lieu of gifts or monetary contributions, you can show us some love and appreciation by liking, following, commenting, and rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support means the world to us and helps us continue to bring you more engaging and thought-provoking content.
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Episode 75: The Art of the Con – Exploring the Psychology and Tactics Behind Famous Con Artists
In this gripping episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu take a deep dive into the world of con artists—those charismatic manipulators who make deception an art form. From 19th-century fraudsters like Samuel Thompson to modern-day scammers like Anna Sorokin (aka Anna Delvy), this episode explores the fascinating techniques and psychology behind the perfect con.
We break down the lives of some of history's most infamous conmen, including the legendary Ferdinand Waldo Demara, who successfully posed as a Canadian Navy surgeon, a prison warden, and even a college professor. We also explore the motivations behind cons like the "Nigerian Prince" scam and discuss the fascinating charisma that makes con artists so compelling.
Whether you're curious about the psychology of persuasion, the traits that make a successful conman, or why we sometimes idolize these criminals, this episode has it all. We explore classic cons, modern scams, and discuss how confidence and charm play a pivotal role in pulling off the perfect deception. Plus, we get into the psychology behind successful cons, such as the "foot-in-the-door" technique, and debate whether even conmen can get conned themselves.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by human behavior, persuasion, or the fascinating world of deception.
Listen now to discover:
The story of Samuel Thompson, New York’s first “confidence man”The psychology of persuasion and the dark triad of personality traitsHow Anna Sorokin conned her way into the high society and landed on Dancing with the StarsWhy con artists like Frank Abagnale and Ferdinand Waldo Demara are so compellingLike, share, and subscribe to Put Em On The Couch for more deep dives into the minds of fascinating figures in history!
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Join the cast of Put Em On The Couch for our election day special coverage.
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In this hair raising episode of Put Em On The Couch, we explore the psychology of fear, starting with a chilling reflection on the 1966 mass shooting at the University of Texas. Join me and co-host Nelson as we discuss a range of fears—rational and irrational—beginning with John B. Watson's infamous experiments.
Nelson shares his thrill-seeking experiences, while I confront existential fears like extinction and loss of autonomy, drawing on Mary Ainsworth's research in developmental psychology. We also examine Chapman University's latest survey revealing Americans' top fears, including cyberterrorism and corrupt government officials, and how political leaders use fear to manipulate.
Our conversation delves into the biology of fear, particularly the role of the amygdala, and the difference between fear and anxiety. We explore quirky irrational fears and the therapeutic potential of fear experiences, as highlighted by researcher Margee Kerr.
As we wrap up, we encourage listeners to transform their fears into action as we approach the election, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and empowered.
Tune in for an enlightening exploration of fear—its origins, consequences, and how we can navigate it in our lives!
Listen now and confront your fears with us!
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Election 2024: Is it still the economy, stupid?
Episode Description:
With less than two weeks left before the 47th American Presidential Election, join Jason and Nelson in this engaging episode as they dissect the current presidential race, focusing on key themes like masculinity, the economy, and the implications of authoritarianism.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Opening remarks on Tucker Carlson’s comments about Trump.4:00 - Discussion on masculinity as a central theme in the election.10:00 - Jason shares his approach to parenting and the importance of education.22:00 - Economic discussion: Are we better off today than four years ago?30:00 - Exploration of authoritarianism and Trump’s rhetoric.45:00 - Final thoughts on the tight race and the future of democracy.Call to Action: Make sure you’re ready to make your voice heard—get out and vote before or on November 5! If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share our show. Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners!
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Episode 71: The Science and Secrets of Sleep on Sleep on the Couch
In this episode of Sleep on the Couch, hosts Jason and Nelson dive deep into the fascinating world of sleep. With insights drawn from historical perspectives and modern research, they explore our love-hate relationship with sleep, the evolution of sleep patterns, and the implications of our increasingly demanding schedules.
Key Topics Covered:
Historical Perspectives: Discover how our ancestors approached sleep and how this has evolved in modern society.Circadian Rhythms: Learn about the importance of our biological clocks and how they impact our daily lives, especially for adolescents.Fascinating Studies: Hear about Nathaniel Kleitman's groundbreaking cave study and its implications for our understanding of sleep cycles.Health Risks: Understand the serious health risks associated with sleep deprivation, including increased susceptibility to heart disease, diabetes, and more.Improving Sleep Quality: Get practical tips on enhancing your sleep hygiene, from caffeine consumption to the impact of blue light.Dreams and Parasomnias: Delve into the mysteries of dreaming, including REM sleep, lucid dreaming, and the intriguing world of sleep disorders.Join us as we unravel the complexities of sleep, challenge common misconceptions, and share personal anecdotes that resonate with anyone navigating the demands of modern life. Whether you struggle to find the right balance or are simply curious about the science behind sleep, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone.
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review Sleep on the Couch on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue to explore the fascinating world of sleep! Have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover? Connect with us on social media or visit our website to share your thoughts. Sleep well, and join us next week for more insights!
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In their 70th episode of Put 'Em on the Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu delve into the provocative saga of NC Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson. Once celebrated as a rising conservative star, Robinson's career took a dramatic turn after revelations about his alleged online activities and incendiary comments came to light.
Join us as we dissect the intersection of morality, sexuality, and politics in Robinson’s story, exploring how his controversial views clash with his private life. We’ll discuss the implications for his gubernatorial aspirations and what this says about the broader landscape of political hypocrisy. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the complexities of sex and power in the political arena!
Don’t miss this compelling episode! If you enjoyed our discussion on the politics of sex and want to support the show, please take a moment to listen, rate, and review us on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue these important conversations. And don’t forget to share this episode with your friends—let’s spark the dialogue together!
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Feeling trapped in a cycle of boredom? In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, Jason and Nelson invite you to Shock Your Boredom as they explore the rich history and surprising science behind this often-misunderstood emotion. From the Ancient Greeks’ concept of Acedia to modern experiments that reveal our responses to boredom, discover why this feeling can be both challenging and transformative.
Join us as we delve into shocking findings, including a study where participants opted for electric shocks over sitting in silence. With insights from comedian Louie CK and leading researchers like Dankert and Eastman, we’ll uncover how boredom can be a catalyst for creativity and self-discovery.
Tune in and learn how embracing boredom might just spark your next big idea!
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Share your thoughts on boredom and let us know how you cope with it on social media!
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In this captivating episode of Put Em On The Couch, we explore how disgust shapes our moral decisions and political beliefs. Recorded on Friday the 13th, we dive into the unsettling moments from the latest presidential debate between Trump and Harris, examining how these emotional reactions reveal deeper truths about our political psychology.
Join us as we dissect the impact of disgust on voting behavior and political orientation. We’ll explore the biology of emotion, the psychology behind moral judgments, and the ways in which disgust influences our perceptions of political debates and candidates.
Discover why emotions like disgust are crucial in understanding political ideologies and how factors such as family influence and social dynamics come into play. We’ll also discuss the five prongs of morality and how disgust sensitivity connects to conservative viewpoints.
Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between emotions and politics, and gain insights into how primal feelings like disgust drive our moral and political choices.
Subscribe, listen, and share your thoughts on how disgust influences our decisions on Put Em On The Couch!
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Title: Power on the Couch: Unpacking Influence, Wealth, and Responsibility
Description: In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dissect the multifaceted nature of power. From understanding how influence shapes behavior and society to exploring the effects of wealth on honesty, this episode covers it all. We compare Machiavellian tactics with cooperative strategies, delve into historical and modern perspectives on power, and discuss the role of gossip in holding leaders accountable. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the dynamics of power and its implications for personal and societal responsibility.
Timestamps:
1:53 – Defining Power4:30 – Different Forms of Power8:00 – Who Seeks Power? Insights from Research11:00 – Wealth and Its Impact on Behavior17:00 – Power Dynamics and Success Attribution20:00 – Benefits and Drawbacks of Power25:00 – The Role of Soft Power in Diplomacy33:00 – Power Through History45:00 – Gossip as a Check on Power48:00 – Imagining Immense Power52:00 – The Desire for Power57:00 – Political Power and Democracy61:00 – The Influence of Modern Internet Personalities65:00 – Responsibility and VotingCall to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode of Put Em On The Couch, don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review on Apple, Podbean, and/or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners! For updates on new episodes and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on [social media platforms, e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Facebook]. Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Reach out to us at [email protected]
Thanks for tuning in!
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Episode 66: You Know What Is WEIRD? | Put Em On The Couch Podcast
Welcome to the 66th episode of Put Em On The Couch! In this engaging installment, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu explore the concept of "weird" through four distinct psychological lenses, providing a comprehensive analysis of what makes something appear strange or out of the ordinary.
We start with a thought-provoking clip from Gov. Tim Waltz and J.D. Vance using "weird" to critique political ideas and opponents. How does the term shape our understanding and perception of various topics?
Jason and Nelson delve into four key perspectives on what defines "weird":
Understanding: Does the behavior or idea challenge our comprehension, making it appear "weird" simply because it is not easily understood?Norm Violation: Does the behavior or concept violate societal or cultural norms, leading us to label it as "weird"?Moral Violations: Does the behavior breach moral or legal standards, contributing to its classification as "weird"?Statistical Uniqueness: Is the behavior statistically rare or deviates from the norm, which might make it seem "weird" in comparison to the average?The episode also explores real-world examples, including RFK’s unusual fascination with roadkill and the effects of brain parasites on behavior. Insights from Dan Dennett on microorganisms that influence the brain provide an intriguing addition to our discussion.
Additionally, we examine the concept of W.E.I.R.D. (Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, Democratic) and its impact on social science and psychology. How does this framework influence our understanding and categorization of "weird" behaviors?
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Put Em On The Couch for more in-depth explorations of complex topics! If you found this episode insightful, please leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps us reach more curious listeners. Follow us on social media and join the conversation!
Keywords: weirdness, psychological lenses, political rhetoric, clinical psychology, James Joyce, brain parasites, RFK, Dan Dennett, W.E.I.R.D., social science, human behavior, understanding norms, moral violations, statistical uniqueness
Hashtags: #Weirdness #PsychologicalLenses #PoliticalRhetoric #ClinicalPsychology #JamesJoyce #BrainParasites #RFK #DanDennett #WEIRD #SocialScience #HumanBehavior
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In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, titled "Teachers Unite! A Conversation with Jen Mangrum," host Jason McCoy explores the pressing issues facing public education in North Carolina. With teacher vacancies skyrocketing, morale at an all-time low, and funding falling short, the state's education system is in crisis.
We’ll dive into the challenges—like dwindling teacher pipelines, stagnant pay, and the struggle to secure necessary resources—while also examining the efforts of advocates like Brian Proffit, VP of the NCAE, who are sounding the alarm on these critical issues. We’ll also discuss the role of state leaders such as Phil Berger and the implications of the Leandro Ruling on the future of public education in the state.
Our special guest, Dr. Jen Mangrum, a veteran educator and newly appointed leader with the American Federation of Teachers (#AFT), joins us to discuss her bold new role in driving reform. Dr. Mangrum will share her insights on the current state of public education, her mission to support educators, and what actions can be taken to improve the system.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions facing North Carolina’s public schools and hear from a key figure dedicated to making a difference.
To learn more about the AFT and/or what you can do to support public education, email Jen Mangrum at [email protected] or Jason McCoy at [email protected] and/or visit the AFT website at aft.org
Keywords & Hashtags: #NCAE #AFT #TeachersUnite #PublicSchools #EducationReform #TeacherSupport #CollectiveBargaining #SchoolChoice #TeacherMorale #NorthCarolinaEducation #RandiWeingarten #EducationCrisis #TeacherVacancies #TeacherPay #EducationAdvocacy #JenMangrum #EducationEquity #RedForEd #TeacherUnion #PublicEducation #PhilBerger #LeandroRuling
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Description:
Why does coming in second often feel worse than finishing third? In this episode, we dive into the "Silver Medal Paradox," exploring why silver medalists sometimes experience more regret than bronze winners. We examine how this psychological phenomenon, tied to #ProspectTheory and #LossAversion, affects not just Olympic athletes but also talent show contestants, backup quarterbacks, and even social contexts like dating.
From exploring historical examples and famous runner-up stories to analyzing reality TV and sports, we uncover why being "almost the best" can feel like a bigger letdown. We also discuss how these insights apply to everyday life, from job interviews to romantic relationships. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how second place impacts our emotions and perceptions of success.
Keywords: #SilverMedalBlues, #SecondPlace, #ProspectTheory, #LossAversion, #RunnerUpRegret, #OlympicAthletes, #TalentContests, #RealityTV, #BackupQuarterbacks, #Dating, #SocialPsychology
Call to Action:
Enjoyed this episode? Please like and rate our show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—it really helps us reach more listeners! Share this episode with friends who might enjoy it, and join the conversation on social media using #PutEmOnTheCouch. We’d love to hear from you—email us at [email protected] to comment, say hello, or send us recommendations for future shows. Your feedback and ideas are always welcome!
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In this eye-opening episode of Put Em on the Couch, Jason sits down with Dr. Regina Nouhan, a retired plastic surgeon and host of Plastic Surgery Decoded. Together, they unravel "The Paradox of Pretty" and delve into the intricate dance between societal standards and personal desires in the realm of aesthetics.
Tune in to discover:
The Paradox of Beauty: What truly defines "pretty"? Explore how our perceptions of beauty can be both captivating and flawed.Plastic Surgery Unveiled: Understand the critical differences between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and the ethical considerations that guide these practices.Innovations and Insights: From cutting-edge 3D printing to personalized patient care, uncover the latest advancements shaping the future of plastic surgery.Ethical Dilemmas: Learn how plastic surgeons balance personal and societal expectations while upholding professional integrity.Whether you're fascinated by the science behind beauty or intrigued by the ethical dimensions of cosmetic procedures, this conversation with Dr. Nouhan offers profound insights and thought-provoking perspectives.
Don’t miss this enlightening episode! Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your podcasts. Share it with friends and family who are curious about the evolving world of plastic surgery and beauty.
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In this eye-opening episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason and Nelson tackle the prevalent myth that hard work is the ultimate path to success. "Why Your Best Effort Might Not Be Enough: The Hard Work Myth" questions the assumption that putting in more hours and effort always leads to better results.
In This Episode:
The Limits of Hard Work: Discover why relentless effort doesn’t always yield success and explore the concept of “leverage” as an alternative approach.Defining Hard Work: Examine the varying interpretations of hard work and why a universal definition remains elusive.The "Rise and Grind" Fallacy: Analyze the popular mantra of working tirelessly and its potential downsides, including incentivizing unnecessary misery.Success Perspectives: Compare insights from figures like Elon Musk and Warren Buffett on whether hard work alone is the key to success.Beyond Effort: Reflect on the roles of luck, talent, and strategic decisions in achieving success.Featured Clips:
Motivational speaker insightsTED Talks and news segments highlighting key themesJoin Jason and Nelson as they challenge conventional beliefs about hard work and offer a new perspective on achieving success. If you’re an ambitious professional, entrepreneur, or curious about what truly drives success, this episode will provide thought-provoking insights.
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and more discussions!
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Join us as we delve into the latest political whirlwind! In this episode (61) we analyze the seismic shifts following Trump's unexpected choice of J.D. Vance for Vice President and Biden's pivotal endorsement of Kamala Harris for President. From dissecting the unconventional speakers at the RNC to debating Trump's unwavering persona amidst these developments, we explore what these decisions mean for the upcoming election landscape. Don't miss our insights on the strategies, surprises, and strategic implications shaping the race ahead.
If you aren't already doing so, please be sure to Follow Put Em On The Couch on Spotify, Apple or most anywhere you listen to podcasts. You can also join the "couch surfering" listenership and supportship by giving us a follow on Facebook.
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Join us for a compelling exploration of the recent assassination attempt on Trump and its profound impact on American politics. In this episode, we delve into the aftermath of this shocking event, analyzing its implications for political discourse and unity in America. From examining historical parallels to discussing calls for societal cohesion, we navigate the complexities of political violence and its broader ramifications.
We offer deep insights into the dynamics of political rhetoric amidst heightened tensions, exploring how such events shape public perception and policy discussions. This episode provides a critical examination of Trump's influence on contemporary politics, from divisive rhetoric to real-world consequences, prompting reflection on the state of democracy and civic engagement.
Discover nuanced perspectives on the role of leadership, the challenges of unity amidst polarization, and the societal responses to political violence. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that aims to illuminate the path forward in an increasingly polarized landscape.
#TrumpAssasinationattempt #putemonthecouch #unityinAmerica #politicalpolarization #RNC #2024election #JoeBiden #societalimplications #leadershipchallenges #J.D.Vance #HillbillyElegy #turndowntherhetoric #turndownthetemperature
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"Should President Joe Biden bow out of the 2024 presidential race? Dive into a passionate debate following his debate performance against Donald Trump. Explore opinions on Biden's candidacy, potential successors like Kamala Harris, and implications for democracy. Join the discussion on age-related concerns, cognitive abilities, and the future of Democratic leadership."
Keywords: President Joe Biden, 2024 presidential race, debate performance, Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Democratic candidacy, age-related concerns, cognitive abilities, democracy, political debate
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My cohost has been away for a couple of weeks. On this episode of Put Em On The Couch, we find out where Nelson has been. We'll discuss travel, vacationing and why the two aren't necessarily the same thing. Join us for another lively and edutaining conversation as we put travel - on the Couch!
#putemonthecouch #jasonmccoy #tanzania #zanzibar #travelchangesyou #whereintheworldhasNelsonbeen
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