Psychology in Everyday Life: The Psych Files

289
Courses #123

Learn how theories in psychology affect you in everyday life. Upbeat and interesting podcasts from experienced psychology teacher Michael Britt give you a bit more insight into you and your life.

Recent Episodes
  • Study Hack: Use ChatGPT to Ace Your Exams! | Self-Explanation Effect
    Feb 7, 2025 – 04:54
  • Lost in the Click: Exploring the Browser Doorway Effect
    Oct 18, 2024 – 03:05
  • Beck's Cognitive Distortions: An AI-Powered Learning Activity
    Jun 24, 2024 – 03:42
  • Paralyzed by Fear: Exploring Tonic Immobility in Sexual Assault
    May 11, 2024 – 10:13
  • Cloning Voices: Scary Maybe, But Also Therapeutic?
    May 6, 2024 – 11:52
  • The Psychology of Music: The Role of Expectations and Minor Chords
    Apr 29, 2024 – 43:39
  • My 3 Favorite Psych Articles This Week - March 8, 2024
    Mar 8, 2024 – 04:18
  • From Insane Asylum to Psychiatric Center: A Brief History
    Jan 20, 2024 – 32:26
  • Episode 104: Can Positive Affirmations Improve Your Self Esteem?
    Jan 18, 2024 – 20:47
  • Episode 64: Self Help Book - How To Tell if It's Any Good
    Jan 18, 2024 – 30:48
  • How to Remember Names
    Aug 8, 2023 – 18:04
  • Part 2: How Do Actors Memorize All Those Lines?
    Jun 29, 2023 – 30:55
  • How Do Actors Memorize Lines? Interview With Jared Kelner
    Jun 10, 2023 – 33:27
  • Do Brain Training Games Work?
    Apr 10, 2023 – 13:37
  • How Actors Use the "Number-Shape" Mnemonic Technique
    Apr 6, 2023 – 04:50
  • Questionable Research - With A Famous Psychologist Involved
    Mar 29, 2023 – 33:44
  • Actors Use Keywords to Memorize Lines
    Mar 24, 2023 – 04:36
  • Human Emotions: The Two Factor Theory
    Mar 15, 2023 – 16:23
  • Games and Videos as Therapeutic Tools: Dr. Anna Vagin (part 2)
    Mar 7, 2023 – 28:10
  • Using TableTop Games and Videos in Therapy: Interview with Anna Vagin
    Feb 22, 2023 – 20:26
  • How Psychology Gets You To Slow Down While Driving
    Jan 13, 2023 – 13:11
  • The TV Show Luther, Logical Thinking and Crinkly Plates to Lose Weight
    Jan 12, 2023 – 22:29
  • The Psychology of Tipping
    Dec 4, 2022 – 27:43
  • How Smart Do You Want Your Fitness Tracker to Be?
    Nov 26, 2022 – 29:59
  • How to Prevent Violence in Your Neighborhood
    Nov 12, 2022 – 11:15
  • Adele Faber Interview on Parenting (Part 2)
    Oct 4, 2022 – 35:53
  • Adele Faber Interview on Parenting (Part 1)
    Oct 4, 2022 – 26:13
  • Racial Divide: Why Does It Happen? How We Can Fix It
    Sep 26, 2022 – 30:24
  • What is Music Therapy?
    Sep 7, 2022 – 37:46
  • What Can We Do To End Anti-Gay Bullying in Schools?
    Aug 15, 2022 – 32:09
  • How To Create a Human-Like Voice
    Aug 15, 2022 – 19:41
  • Want to Swap Bodies?
    Aug 8, 2022 – 22:21
  • Manhood: Are You A "Real Man"?
    Jun 18, 2022 – 23:03
  • Testosterone Doesn't Necessarily Cause Men to be Aggressive
    May 19, 2022 – 16:41
  • The Secret Life of Pronouns - an Interview with James Pennebaker
    May 10, 2022 – 26:22
  • In the Movies, Why Does the Woman Always Have to Die? And Other Gender Stereotypes
    May 10, 2022 – 24:23
  • Owning Bipolar: A Conversation with Michael Pipich - Part 2
    May 4, 2022 – 13:57
  • An Example of How Psychoanalysts Really Interpret Dreams
    May 4, 2022 – 20:43
  • Owning Bipolar: A Conversation with Michael Pipich - Part 1
    Apr 26, 2022 – 21:09
  • Why Do You Talk To Your Dog Like That? And Does It Understand You?
    Apr 18, 2022 – 19:57
  • Trauma Recovery with Dr. Matt Jaremko
    Apr 14, 2022 – 34:45
  • The Psychology of A Quiet Place and Mission Impossible
    Apr 12, 2022 – 24:53
  • Motivational Interviewing and the TV Show Columbo
    Mar 25, 2022 – 20:35
  • It's So Fluffy!
    Mar 19, 2022 – 13:56
  • Personal Space Invasion: What Happens When Someone Invades Your Personal Space?
    Mar 6, 2022 – 32:22
  • Computer Programmers: Obsessed With Efficiency
    Feb 25, 2022 – 34:11
  • Giving Voice To Our Digital Assistants
    Feb 18, 2022 – 20:05
  • The Team Behind Q – World’s First Genderless Digital Voice
    Feb 18, 2022 – 18:21
  • Ep 276: "Because I Said So" Doesn't Work for Teens
    Feb 1, 2022 – 21:21
  • Ep 334: The Psychology of the Fantasticks
    Jan 30, 2022 – 08:29
Recent Reviews
  • heyhalogen
    Listening Over a Decade
    This is the podcast I’ll always come back to. Michael’s charm & intelligence is captivating, as he has always been able to break down complex psychological theories or studies and convince them into a version that is enjoyable to listen to and very informative. I can say beyond the shadow of a doubt what I’ve learned from this podcast has been shared with dozens throughout my life. I used to listen to this podcast as I took my walks while pregnant with my first child… Now, my four children (ages 3-10) all enjoy listening to the interesting studies & like to play along when Michael asks questions. I am surely the biggest fan there will ever be at this podcast, and I will forever be grateful for it! PS: the episodes on memory I have listened to probably 10 times each… so if you’re going to start anywhere, I would start with those two episodes :) Thank you so much !
  • vhefti
    Please don’t take down
    I just found this show. Please don’t take it down for a long while. I need some time to get through all of the years’ content :)
  • c.a.martin
    Awesome podcast
    The best psych podcast. Graduating this semester and your podcast helped a lot! You have the perfect voice for this. Relaxing and kind. Hope you go on to do something similar!
  • nattyvask
    Omg
    Great podcast learned so much over years, its been so helpful when it’s comes to dealing with my son’s psychological issues. I can’t believe it’s coming to an end ! I don’t understand, why....?
  • Shannonluker75
    Completely enjoyable
    I wish this podcast’s episodes were longer! I love listening. I work from home and I love the thought of actually learning new things and listening to the host interview interesting people while I work. Or shower. Or go for a walk. Multi- tasking! In addition, this podcast looks at mental health in a realistic and relatable way. Very few of us encounter a homicidal maniac during the day, unless you count teenagers and small children, but we all have some sort of quirk and live with and work with and love and hate ppl that have issues that are a little more than just quirks. Knowing how and why people behave the way they do helps us understand their motivation for their actions and understanding promotes empathy. Understanding your own motivation for your actions brings self awareness and healthier relationships. Thank you so much!
  • Ashleywilkes1862
    Terrible
    He sounds like the boring teacher that made me skip psych class in college because the teacher sucked but for reason was never fired. This podcaster rambles on and on about -- I don't know what, that's the problem. I clicked on the one about "is your dog really smart" - the podcast was 40 minutes long, but it took him 35 minutes to get to the point. Just terrible. Then I clicked on 5 reasons why Casey Anthony may be innocent and again, most of the podcase was about rambling on about nothing having to do with the subject matter -- jokes that weren't funny, etc.
  • Hasbury
    Love how informative this is!
    As a psych student, I owe my 4.0 to this podcast!
  • Vespertide
    Exasperating
    I wanted to like this podcast, I really did. So much so that I gritted my teeth and powered through 3 episodes. It was on this 3rd and final episode where I couldn't take the verbosity any longer. I finally had to switch off, exasperated from urging Mr. Britt to "Get on with it already!". And then I realized that the episodes I had listened to never actually got on about anything! Maybe it was just the few that I listened/cringed to, but I never felt informed in the topic; nor do I feel he should have even bothered with that shambles of a borderline personality disorder episode. It was definitely not one to recommend, I'm sorry to say.
  • Corstew91
    Comfortable pace, easy listening
    Great pace, comfortable to listen to while working at a desk during the week and maybe focusing on other things at the same time, it's easy to digest. Positive information - inspires me with some real solutions! Thanks, Britt!
  • ddinardo33
    The best psych podcast on iTunes
    Dr. Britt applies his love of teaching and psychology to podcasting brilliantly. Be sure to take notes, and listen to what he has to say. You won’t be disappointed. I loved his podcast talking about Dr. Stanley Milgrim’s seminal work, and the work that has been done in response. Recommend!
  • OAZ2017
    Too much time used to talk about personal experiences
    I prefer to hear more of the topic instead of expending 20 or more minutes about expert life. Please discuss more about topic not personal life.
  • CC Ryders
    One major flaw.
    So much good stuff, but it overridden by TERRIBLE child rearing advice. My suggestion would be to download all episodes, but delete all that have to do with child rearing, and replace it with the phrase “because I said so.”
  • MrWebbJA
    Interesting & informative
    Great podcast if you're an eager learner. Host has pleasing demeanor and sounds like Dr. Phlox on Enterprise. Keep up the good work.
  • Bird8888888
    1st 5 minutes are him selling
    25% of each podcast I've listened to are about this guy and how we should follow him on social. Get to the goods man.
  • hogan20
    Helpful and Relevant
    Useful information. Listen to all of episodes to gain working knowledge. The topic may not seem to be relevant to your issue, but you'll be pleasantly surprised that it will provide you with helpful insight, despite the title. I've listened to every single episode (yep, really)-they provide a lot of clinical information as well as a real world working context for DSM v.x's, and least, but not last, for our own self awareness. As I hope, we all want this to be a kinder world to be in, and understanding ourselves is bound to create a kinder place to be.
  • ArchieboyGuy
    A Wonderful Podcast By A Host Who Clearly Knows Psychology
    There is no shortage of pseudo-scientific “pop psychology” on the Internet, so when I came across Dr. Britt’s podcast, I was skeptical. It did not take long for me to become a fan. As a fellow PhD'er in psychology, I can vouch for the quality and accuracy of the content in this podcast. Show after show, he consistently delivers interesting topics, guests, and commentaries. He explains the information clearly and discusses the academic information that most popular podcasts leave out. He has a great personality that makes the show a joy to listen to. I have been “binge” listening starting with episode #1 and I am approaching episode #200. I would never devote this much of my valuable time to a podcast unless it was both entertaining and academically stimulating. Well done Dr. Britt.
  • chrisgali
    Im uncomfortable
    His voice makes me angry and the subtle smacking of his mouth as he talks makes me want to kill myself.
  • ...Chupon...
    Best podcast
    Pretty good stuff
  • Gamer game man
    Low level psych
    Interesting topics. Not the most interesting comments. Very often he drones on, is not very concise and takes forever to make a point which is typically elementary and doesn't go in into much depth. He is a nice guy and seems to be having fun. Easy listen. Not much rousing content.
  • Shadow1953
    Great Podcast
    Lot's of interesting information.
  • Trashk
    Long time listener
    I've been listening to this podcast for years. It's one of my favorites. I highly recommend this podcast if you have an interest in psychology.
  • Vmurp
    Too much babbling & rambling!
    This guy does way too much babbling and rambling, and takes FOREVER to get to the point. Then even when he does finally get to the point, he drags out the point with more babbling and rambling. If all of the rambling was removed, we'd probably be left with only 5 min of actual substance.
  • Mimetta1980
    Love it!
    Easy to follow and awesome topics!
  • Surfiegurl8
    Best ever
    Im not even a psych major but we have a lot of psych in nursing. This makes everything so easy to understand and apply. Wish i found this sooner. Great Job. Keep doing what you do best and inspire others. Wish i had a teacher this great and passionate.
  • Gofish21
    Psychology, Parsed, With Perspective.
    He does his homework and brings a mature perspective to the table too. Much respect for Michael.
  • j_starcher
    Addictive podcast
    I started listening to this podcast about 2 months ago. I was looking for something interesting and intriguing and was not disappointed. I am a psychology student and attend classes online. Being as such I do not get the benefit of listening to lectures or presentations. This pod cast has filled the gap. I cannot stop listening! I've gone through almost every episode over the past two months and keep wanting to hear more. The topics are on point, relevant and well researched. The Dr. Brit presents information is understandable and relatable. Topics in this pod cast have sparked numerous conversations between my peers and I. I listen every chance I get. It has also been a huge assistance within my classes. Hearing someone talk about topics that I am studying or have studied really helped me get a grasp on the subject. Thank you Dr Brit for the outstanding podcast.
  • Axon K
    One of my favorite podcasts
    This is a great psychology based podcast with a smart host. Keep up the good work.
  • Visionatwo
    Fun learning times!
    Great show. Logged in for the first time to write a review for this show. Very interesting for this psyc undergrad :). Keep it up!
  • I demand substance
    Great Content, Poor Presentation
    Michael Britt is indeed knowledgeable, but his presentation is a bit tedious. succinct, punctual and poignant, he is not. after pressing play, it may take up to 5 minutes for him to actually get to the podcast, and another 3 before he delivers any content. some are more dense than others, but there are times where I almost feel as though I'm listening to a guided meditation. some may find his conversational approach and anecdotal tangents charming, but personally… I would prefer a more objective and concise style of presentation. in regards to a 1-star review that critiques his assessment of Freud, Britt did address transference and counter-transference in an early episode.
  • Alloramadai
    Thought Provoking and Enthralling
    Final review for my PMHNP exam; you have helped ground me through my studying, guided me through the tough stuff, and given me pause to smile again.
  • ladymime
    The Psych Files
    Listening to The Psych Files podcast on a regular basis is beneficial to everyday people who are just looking to educate themselves, students of psychology, and professionals in psychology. Many of the topics that Michael Britt touches on are considered hot topics today. Some of the other topics are fun or interesting, and still others are things that society should be more focused on - I look forward to hearing more from this podcast host! - Sarah R.
  • Melbu Frahma
    I love psychology now
    Very informative and I feel like I have a personal one on one psych tutor to tell me about interesting studies regarding psych. Enjoy listening to it before I go to bed.
  • Thunderus
    Keeping up my passion
    I have a passion for psychology, and this podcast has kept my fill keep killing!
  • -nOObie-
    Informative and entertaining
    Keep up the good work! :-)
  • chris4339
    Highly Informative
    I was browsing through a few podcast and i came across this podcast and was impressed by it because it is highly informative. Since im a psychology major i plan to keep listening to more episodes to become more informed about particular topics within psychology. Thank you for taking the time and effort to create these episodes.
  • CESAR BAUTISTA
    I'm a psych lover and didn't know it!
    I just discovered your podcast and I really enjoy it. I think your very down to earth and nice to listen to. I find your topics to be fascinating and thought provoking! Just what I have been looking for because I've been so mentally bored! I loved your episode on synchronicity!!! I don't remember how I discovered that as I did not take psychology in college but because of that word I discovered Jung. Keep up the good work! Remember everyone has opinions and what I love someone may hate so sometimes you just need to experience it for yourself rather than listening based solely on reviews.
  • Enis M.
    Amazing
    Very educational.
  • Filosofjer
    Thank you
    I know producing a podcast involves a tremendous time investment. Thanks to Michael Britt for all the hard work in consistently putting together interesting episodes. TPF is among my favorites.
  • beansandlace
    Love it
    Favorite podcast. Very Interesting.
  • Paul Dirac
    Excellent material...Inspirational!
    I started listening to Michael Britt's program shortly after I became a professor a few years ago. His work has influenced and inspired me. I am a huge fan of "The Psyche Files" and I am glad that he's been so giving with his time and effort. As a researcher and writer I know how little attention is sometimes paid to the work we do. I am glad that he has so many fans and here is my 'toast' to him and his work.
  • LAWade82
    Informative and Entertaining!
    Michael's podcasts are educational, current, and entertaining. I recently went back to get my masters in Psychological Counseling and this podcast was a lifesaver. My undergraduate degree was in a completely different field, yet due to these podcasts I've been able to participate in class discussions that move away from the assigned reading and into studies and researchers that other students with an undergrad in psychology are familiar with. Lastly, I've applied the information from the podcasts. I used mnemonic to retain information for class and for bike races.
  • testpilot88
    Phenomenal Podcast
    Why do people do what do? Even when it defies logic and common sense? Even when it contradicts what they claim they do? And, most interestingly, when its not what I would in their situation? THIS PODCAST ANSWERS THOSE QUESTIONS - and in an interesting, easy to understand way. The Jack Lalaine podcast blew my mind! In my first semester of college, many many years ago, I took Psych 101, thinking it would be an easy A. instead, it was fascinating and eye-opening. So much so, I briefly considered it as a career. But Psych 103 - Abnormal Psych - was so depressing, I quickly abandoned any notion of that as a career. This is the first podcast I've ever encountered that quenches my insatiable desire to understand my fellow man, using real life examples we can all relate to. This, combined with Michael's pleasant to listen to voice, in his never judgmental, never over-sensationalizing manner, with all the gifts of a natural story teller, make this podcast one of the best in any category I've ever encountered. Thank you Michael!
  • Lisa in ct
    Interesting, informative and educational podcast
    This site was recommended to me for a podcast on "Explosive Children" with Dr. Ablon (33& 34). Then I listened to his coworker Dr. Ross Green (102 &103). Great listening if you interact for children!!!!. I listened to them many times now, always absorbing a bit more. Now I am hooked on these podcasts. Great job Michael. Thanks so much. I am going back and downloading many more!!
  • prymnumber
    Fair and thoughtful discussions, very easy to listen to
    Michael's discussions are fair and thoughtful, and very easy to listen to. The occasional guest speakers adds interest. I have learned so much from this podcast and I think anyone with a slight interest in understanding human behavior would gain a lot from these discussions. I give it a hearty 2 thumbs up!
  • Monsbon
    Superb.
    Its great entertaining information, I've enjoyed every episode of the psych files!
  • Andrew - Dfw
    Fantastic Podcast, great information, and all presented in a very llistener friendly manner!
    Ive listened tothis podcast for about a month now and i can honestly say ive never heard a psychology podcast quite like this oneMichael doesn't come off as that dry boring old lecturer from my undergrad days, rather he comes off as your cool yet quirky friend who found a beetle and helps you set it loose in the kindergarten teachers lunchbox. as odd as the metaphor is thats the impression i get. 5 stars for a magnificient podcast and wonderful presentation!
  • Dhjackson
    Review
    This podcast is presented with helpful and intresting information that has helped me a great deal keep up the good work and thank you Michael for the advice about chooseing a field in phsycology
  • beautifulskye
    fantastic
    I just found this podcast, and I love it! As a grad student in psych, it's a great way to keep learning and remembering different aspects of psychology that may have been buried by the ever mounting heaps of information that we get in school. Thanks very much!
  • Diana Banana
    My Favorite Psychology Podcast
    I am a high school sophomore, 15 years old, and I love this podcast. The topics are very interesting, the delivery is thoughtful and conversational, and I often find myself referencing things I learned in these podcasts while talking to friends and family because they are so relevant and just fascinating. I appreciate the way Britt treats the material with respect and an open, yet critically thinking, mind. P.S. Britt's voice is really pleasant, too!
  • holykhakis
    The Psych Files: Informative and Entertaining
    Great educational podcast that does not bore me out of my mind. The information is relevant and keeps me thinking about things from a psychological perspective. Thanks Dr. Britt for a great podcast.
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