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What if some of the success you admire is down to luck, and some of the failures you judge are simply the result of chance? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a thought-provoking book about luck, probability and the hidden role of chance in our everyday lives.  Taleb challenges the way we interpret success and failure, showing how easily we can mistake a fortunate outcome for evidence of exceptional skill, intelligence or judgement. The book explores why humans naturally search for patterns and explanations, even when events are largely random. We often look at someone who has achieved extraordinary success and assume they must have followed a brilliant strategy.  Yet we may overlook the circumstances, timing and fortunate events that helped them get there. Equally, someone who makes sensible decisions can experience a poor outcome simply because chance does not always work in their favour. Dave and Poppy unpack how this applies to careers, business, investing and personal decision-making. They explore the danger of judging decisions solely by their results, rather than considering the information available and the reasoning behind the choices at the time.  A good decision can produce a disappointing outcome, just as a reckless decision can occasionally lead to a reward. Fooled by Randomness also encourages us to recognise the limits of our own knowledge. Confidence can be misleading when we underestimate uncertainty, focus only on success stories or ignore the people who took similar risks but experienced very different outcomes.  By becoming more aware of randomness, we can develop a more balanced view of achievement, avoid unnecessary overconfidence and make better-informed decisions. This episode invites you to question the stories you tell yourself about success, failure and the people who seem to have everything figured out. Rather than assuming every outcome has a clear explanation, we can learn to recognise the role of uncertainty and prepare for what we cannot predict. Are you making decisions based on genuine skill and sound judgement, or are you mistaking a lucky outcome for proof that you were right all along? Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if becoming the best version of yourself isn't about fixing what's wrong with you, but discovering what you're truly capable of becoming? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Toward a Psychology of Being by Abraham H. Maslow, one of the influential works behind humanistic psychology.  Maslow challenges us to look beyond our limitations, insecurities and everyday struggles to consider a deeper question: what does it mean to live a fulfilled and meaningful life? The book develops Maslow's ideas about self-actualisation, the process of recognising and developing our potential. Rather than viewing people solely through the lens of problems, weaknesses or psychological difficulties, Maslow encourages us to understand human beings through their capacity for growth, creativity, independence and personal fulfilment. Dave and Poppy unpack the difference between living primarily to meet our basic needs and reaching a point where we can explore what gives our lives genuine meaning.  They discuss how fear, social expectations and the desire for approval can sometimes prevent us from expressing our authentic selves, and why personal growth requires both self-awareness and the willingness to step beyond familiar boundaries. The episode also explores Maslow's distinction between deficiency motivation, where our actions are driven by unmet needs, and growth motivation, where we pursue experiences and goals because they help us develop and become more fully ourselves.  This perspective encourages us to reflect on whether our choices are driven by fear and insecurity or by curiosity, purpose and a desire to grow. Toward a Psychology of Being invites us to reconsider how we define success, happiness and psychological well-being.  It reminds us that personal development is not simply about removing our weaknesses or achieving external recognition. It is also about understanding who we are, embracing our potential and learning to live with greater authenticity. Join Dave and Poppy for a thoughtful exploration of human potential, self-discovery and the journey towards a more meaningful life. Are you living according to who you truly are, or are you simply becoming the person you believe the world expects you to be? Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if changing your mind could change the way you see yourself, your experiences and the world around you? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan, a fascinating investigation into the history, science and potential of psychedelic experiences.  Pollan examines how substances such as LSD and psilocybin have moved from the margins of scientific research into renewed interest within modern medicine and psychology. The book explores the experiences of people who have taken psychedelics and the researchers working to understand what happens in the brain and mind during these experiences.  Pollan considers how these substances may temporarily alter deeply established patterns of thought and perception, raising intriguing questions about consciousness, identity and our understanding of reality. Dave and Poppy unpack the idea that the mind is not always as fixed as we might assume. The episode explores how our habitual ways of thinking can shape the way we experience life, while also considering the importance of context, intention and guidance when discussing psychedelic experiences. How to Change Your Mind also takes a wider look at the history of psychedelic research, including its early scientific promise, its suppression during the drug wars and the renewed research that has emerged in recent decades.  Rather than presenting psychedelics as a simple answer to life's challenges, Pollan takes a more investigative approach, exploring both their potential and the questions that remain. This episode invites us to think more deeply about consciousness, perception and the possibility of seeing familiar things differently. What if the mind isn't something we simply have, but something that can change, adapt and be experienced in entirely new ways? Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if the ability to rethink what you believe could be more valuable than simply knowing more? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Think Again by Adam Grant, a fascinating look at the power of rethinking.  Grant challenges us to question our assumptions, reconsider opinions that may no longer serve us, and become more comfortable with changing our minds when new information comes to light. The book explores why we can become attached to our beliefs and why being wrong can feel uncomfortable.  Grant introduces the idea of approaching our thinking more like a scientist, testing assumptions rather than defending them, and remaining curious enough to consider perspectives that challenge our own. Dave and Poppy unpack how this way of thinking can apply to everyday life, from relationships and conversations to work, decision-making and personal growth.  Sometimes the biggest barrier to progress isn't a lack of knowledge, but our unwillingness to reconsider what we already think we know. Think Again also explores how we communicate with people who see the world differently. Instead of trying to win every argument, there is value in asking better questions, listening more carefully and creating space for genuine reconsideration. This episode is an invitation to look at your own beliefs with a little more curiosity. What could change if, instead of being afraid to say "I was wrong", you saw changing your mind as a sign that you are still learning? Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth, but an opportunity to understand yourself, strengthen your resilience, and move forward? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Bouncing Back from Rejection by Leslie Becker-Phelps, a thoughtful guide to understanding the emotional impact of rejection and developing healthier ways to respond when we feel unwanted, criticised, excluded, or disappointed. They unpack how rejection can trigger deep emotional reactions and why experiences that seem small on the surface can sometimes affect our confidence, relationships, and sense of self.  Dave and Poppy discuss the importance of recognising these reactions without allowing them to define who you are or how you see yourself. The conversation explores self-compassion, emotional awareness, resilience, and the patterns that can develop when we become overly focused on other people's approval.  The hosts also reflect on how learning to understand your emotional responses can help you handle difficult experiences without becoming trapped by shame, self-doubt, or the need for constant validation. Dave and Poppy discuss practical ways to process rejection, rebuild confidence, and develop a healthier relationship with yourself after experiencing disappointment or exclusion. This episode is honest, reassuring, and deeply relatable. If rejection has ever left you questioning your worth, relationships, or direction in life, this conversation offers a different way to look at those experiences and a reminder that being rejected does not have to define your story. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if protecting your peace sometimes means creating distance from the people you’re expected to be closest to? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore But It’s Your Family by Sherrie Campbell, a powerful and compassionate look at toxic family relationships, emotional boundaries, and the difficult decision to step away from relationships that continue to cause harm. They unpack the emotional challenges that can come with recognising unhealthy family dynamics, particularly when guilt, obligation, loyalty, and the expectation to “keep the family together” make it difficult to put your own wellbeing first.  Dave and Poppy discuss why sharing DNA doesn’t automatically make a relationship healthy, safe, or supportive. The conversation explores boundaries, self-worth, forgiveness, grief, and the complicated emotions that can follow when someone chooses to reduce or end contact with a family member.  The hosts also reflect on the importance of rebuilding your sense of identity and learning to love yourself without constantly seeking approval from those around you. Dave and Poppy discuss how breaking a toxic cycle can be uncomfortable, lonely, and emotionally challenging, while also creating space for healthier relationships and a stronger connection with yourself. This episode is honest, compassionate, and thought-provoking. If you’ve ever struggled with family expectations, unhealthy relationships, or the fear of putting yourself first, this conversation offers a reminder that protecting your wellbeing is not the same as abandoning the people you love. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if the life you’re meant to live begins when you stop trying to become who everyone else expects you to be? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Untamed by Glennon Doyle, a powerful and deeply personal exploration of authenticity, self-discovery, courage, and breaking free from the expectations that can shape our lives. They unpack Doyle’s journey of learning to trust her own instincts and listen to the voice within, rather than constantly seeking approval or following the path laid out by others.  The conversation explores identity, relationships, motherhood, self-worth, and the courage it takes to question the rules and expectations that no longer fit who you are. Dave and Poppy discuss the idea of becoming “untamed” by reconnecting with your own desires, values, and intuition.  They reflect on how fear of judgement can keep us living according to other people’s definitions of success, happiness, and acceptance, and why embracing your authentic self can be both challenging and liberating. The hosts also explore the importance of self-trust, personal freedom, and making choices that reflect who you really are rather than who you think you should be. This episode is honest, thought-provoking, and empowering. If you’ve ever felt trapped by expectations, questioned whether you’re living your own life, or wondered what might happen if you finally trusted yourself, this conversation offers plenty of inspiration to break free and live more authentically. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if the chemical driving your desire for more is also influencing your relationships, ambitions, creativity, and the way you experience life? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Taming The Molecule of More by Michael E. Long, a fascinating exploration of dopamine and its powerful influence on human behaviour, motivation, desire, and decision-making. They unpack the difference between wanting and having, exploring why the brain can become more excited by what might happen than by what we already have.  The conversation looks at how dopamine can drive ambition, curiosity, attraction, creativity, risk-taking, and our constant search for something new. Dave and Poppy discuss how the pursuit of the next achievement, purchase, relationship, experience, or goal can create a cycle of anticipation that is difficult to switch off. They also explore the tension between chasing what is possible and appreciating what is already in front of us. The hosts reflect on what happens when the desire for more begins to influence our choices, relationships, and sense of fulfilment.  This episode offers a fascinating look at the science behind motivation and raises an important question: are we controlling our desires, or are our desires controlling us? If you’ve ever wondered why achieving something doesn’t always feel as satisfying as you expected, or why you’re constantly looking towards the next thing, this conversation offers plenty to think about. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if living longer isn’t the real goal, but living healthier, stronger, and with more purpose for every year you have? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity by Peter Attia, a groundbreaking look at how modern science can help us not only extend our lifespan but also improve our healthspan, the number of years we live in good health. They unpack Attia’s evidence-based approach to preventing chronic disease before it begins, focusing on nutrition, exercise, sleep, emotional wellbeing, and personalised healthcare.  The conversation explores why many of today’s biggest health challenges, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions, are often influenced by lifestyle choices made decades earlier.  Dave and Poppy discuss how taking a proactive approach to health can dramatically improve quality of life in the years ahead. The hosts also reflect on the importance of strength, mobility, and emotional resilience as we age.  They explore how building healthy habits today creates a foundation for greater independence, vitality, and fulfilment later in life, challenging the idea that ageing inevitably means decline. This episode is insightful, practical, and backed by cutting-edge science. If you want to take control of your long-term health, improve your daily wellbeing, and give yourself the best chance of living a longer, healthier life, this conversation is packed with valuable insights. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if success isn’t determined by talent or intelligence, but by your willingness to keep going when things get difficult? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth, an inspiring exploration of what really drives achievement and long-term success. They unpack Duckworth’s research into grit, revealing why passion combined with perseverance often outperforms natural ability.  The conversation explores how consistent effort, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement help people accomplish extraordinary goals. Dave and Poppy discuss why setbacks, failures, and obstacles are not signs to quit, but opportunities to learn, grow, and become stronger. The hosts also reflect on the importance of developing purpose, maintaining focus over the long term, and building habits that support sustained progress.  They explore how grit can be cultivated in everyday life, whether you're pursuing a career, growing a business, improving relationships, or striving for personal excellence. This episode is motivating, insightful, and packed with practical wisdom. If you're ready to stop relying on motivation alone and develop the resilience to achieve your biggest goals, this conversation will inspire you to keep moving forward, one step at a time. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if making better decisions has less to do with being right and more to do with thinking in probabilities? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke, a fascinating book that challenges the way we make decisions by showing that uncertainty is a part of everyday life, not something to fear. They unpack Duke’s approach to decision-making, explaining why even the best choices can sometimes produce poor outcomes, while bad decisions can occasionally seem successful.  The conversation explores the importance of separating the quality of a decision from the result, helping us learn from experience without being misled by luck or chance. Dave and Poppy discuss how adopting a probabilistic mindset can reduce overconfidence, improve judgement, and lead to wiser choices in business, relationships, and personal life. The hosts also reflect on the value of curiosity, intellectual humility, and being willing to change your mind when new evidence emerges. They explore how questioning assumptions and embracing uncertainty can strengthen confidence rather than weaken it. This episode is thought-provoking, practical, and full of valuable insights. If you want to make smarter decisions, think more clearly under pressure, and navigate uncertainty with greater confidence, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if true effectiveness isn’t about doing more, but about becoming the kind of person who consistently makes better choices? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey, a timeless classic on personal leadership, character development, and lasting success. They unpack Covey’s seven transformative habits, from being proactive and beginning with the end in mind to prioritising what matters most and creating win-win relationships.  The conversation explores how effectiveness starts from the inside out, focusing on principles, values, and personal responsibility rather than quick fixes or surface-level productivity hacks. Dave and Poppy discuss the importance of self-awareness, discipline, and intentional living, reflecting on how habits shape not just what we achieve, but who we become. The hosts also explore how communication, empathy, and continuous growth strengthen relationships, leadership, and long-term fulfilment. This episode is insightful, practical, and deeply empowering. If you want to lead your life with greater purpose, improve your relationships, and build habits that create meaningful success, this conversation offers principles that remain just as powerful today as when they were first written. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if one of the most powerful ways to improve your mood, memory, and mental clarity is already available to you every single day? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Healthy Brain, Happy Life by Wendy Suzuki, a fascinating blend of neuroscience and personal transformation that reveals how everyday choices directly shape brain health and emotional wellbeing. They unpack Suzuki’s groundbreaking research on neuroplasticity and the brain’s remarkable ability to change, adapt, and grow throughout life.  The conversation explores how exercise, movement, and daily habits can improve focus, reduce stress, strengthen memory, and even help protect against cognitive decline.  Dave and Poppy discuss why physical health and mental performance are far more connected than many people realise. The hosts also reflect on the emotional side of brain health, examining how habits influence mood, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.  They explore why small, consistent actions often create the biggest changes and how caring for the brain can lead to a happier, more balanced life. This episode is insightful, practical, and deeply motivating. If you want to sharpen your mind, improve your wellbeing, and better understand the science behind lasting change, this conversation offers valuable tools you can start using today. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if success has less to do with talent or motivation and more to do with your ability to stay disciplined when excitement fades? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Finish What You Start by Peter Hollins, a practical and motivating guide to building discipline, beating procrastination, and following through on the goals that matter most. Dave and Poppy unpack Hollins’ insights into why so many people begin with energy and ambition, only to lose momentum when challenges appear.  The conversation explores the psychology behind procrastination, distraction, and self-sabotage, showing how habits and mindset often determine whether goals are achieved or abandoned. Dave and Poppy discuss the importance of consistency, mental toughness, and building systems that support long-term progress. The hosts also reflect on why relying solely on motivation can be dangerous, and how discipline, focus, and commitment become the real drivers of lasting success. This episode is practical, energising, and full of actionable wisdom. If you’ve ever struggled with unfinished projects, broken promises to yourself, or losing momentum halfway through a goal, this conversation will help you build the mindset needed to finish strong. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.

What if one of the most powerful ways to improve your mood, memory, and mental clarity is already available to you every single day? In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Healthy Brain, Happy Life by Wendy Suzuki, a fascinating blend of neuroscience and personal transformation that reveals how lifestyle choices directly shape brain health and emotional wellbeing. Dave and Poppy unpack Suzuki’s groundbreaking research on neuroplasticity and the brain’s remarkable ability to change, adapt, and grow throughout life.  The conversation explores how exercise, movement, and daily habits can improve focus, reduce stress, strengthen memory, and even protect against cognitive decline.  Dave and Poppy discuss why physical health and mental performance are far more connected than many people realise. Dave and Poppy also reflect on the emotional side of brain health, examining how habits influence mood, resilience, and long-term wellbeing. They explore why small, consistent actions often create the biggest changes and how taking care of the brain can lead to a happier, more balanced life. This episode is insightful, practical, and deeply motivating. If you want to sharpen your mind, improve your wellbeing, and better understand the science behind lasting change, this conversation offers valuable tools you can start using today. Thank you for listening to Mind Set in Stone. If this episode gave you something to think about, follow the show and leave us a review. It really helps new listeners find us. Read the full deep dive and more on The Cognitive Blog, explore everything we make at biglrizmedia.com, or suggest a book for a future episode. Until next time, keep your mind set in stone and your curiosity open. Mind Set in Stone is a Big L Riz Media Group podcast.